Brushing/Flossing Pain?

[AK710]

I've been reading this forum for the past 2 days and 1 thing I've learned is that some people have horrific pain and others have "manageable" pain. I'm terrified that I will be in the former category and that my teeth will be too sensitive when I try to brush and floss them.

How will I take care of my teeth if they are on the "will self-destruct if you touch me with anything" pain level?

[Jammy]

Don't worry about it, that is never going to happen.

[justjenn]

My hygienist told me a trick today that will help. She said to get a baby toothbrush (smallest one you can find, 2-4 yrs. old) and brush with it. They have very soft braces and will get around your braces better. My dentist said my teeth looked amazing after she used it on me. She gave me one and I'll keep using one until my braces come off.

[moonie]

thanks for the tip My son has an elmo one.. they are very soft.

[Sunny]

The child's brush is the best way ... gentle and soft ... plus the size of the head is small, making it easier to brush with.

Most people don't have pain ... a few have pain, rarely does anyone have horrific pain, in fact where I work I don't think anyone ever has. Those who have some pain find that after a few days to a week it's gone ... but you have to do heaps to help this happen. Using wax generously on any brackets as soon as they rub ... and only removing the wax to brush, means those areas can toughen without the skin breaking. Rinsing with warm salt water is soothing and healing ... if your mouth is sore, rinse 5+ times a day. Doing everything your ortho recommends is important. Making sure your oral hygiene is A1 ... without over doing it. For example, brush gently and this only needs to be done 2 or 3 times a day. Over brushing puts the enamel on your teeth and your gums at risk. Flossing once a day ... it will take a bit longer, but the more you do it, the quicker you'll get. Floss carefully with the most important area being just below the gum line ... this is why interdental picks etc can't floss.

Good luck ... and it's amazing what a positive attitude can do!

[josie]

If you do have pain, it is unlikely to be that unbearable and it will be at its worst when you first get them put on. After the first week, it should get much better. Whatever you do to get through that first week, do it, and then get back to your normal routine after the pain fades.