10 Best Toothbrushes For Braces + Buying Guide – As Per A Dentist (2024)
Dr. Farayi (Shakespeare) Moyana is a Zimbabwe-based dentist with 18 years of experience. He is the founder and director of the Zimbabwe Academy of Dental Nursing, a board member of Sunshine Kids Musha Vana, a not-for-profit organization in Melbourne, Australia, and an advisor for the Domboshava MedClinic Maternity Hospital.
Read full bio of Dr. Farayi Shakespeare Moyana
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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rajeshwari das Rajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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In This Article
Whether you are a teenager or a young adult struggling to clean your braces properly and get the residue out, you came to the right article. You need the best toothbrush for braces designed to keep your teeth and brackets as well as wires clean and shiny, promoting oral hygiene. Not cleaning the teeth properly leads to stinking breath and plaque build-up, which is not only a risk to your dental health but can also cause unaesthetic white spots on your teeth when braces are eventually removed. This collection of the 10 best braces-friendly toothbrushes, complete with a buying guide along with reviews, can help you find the one for you.
Top Picks
10 Best Toothbrushes For Braces Available Right Now
Best Rechargeable:Philips Sonicare 4100 ProtectiveClean Power Toothbrush
Philips Sonicare 4100 ProtectiveClean Power Toothbrush is a rechargeable electric toothbrush. It is designed with sonic technology that removes up to 7x more plaque than a manual toothbrush. This ortho-technology-infused brush is suitable for use on braces, fillings, crowns, and veneers, offering real-life results. It protects your teeth and gums with a pressure sensor that gently alerts you when you are brushing too hard. The 2-minute timer (called the QuadPacer) helps ensure consistent cleaning throughout your mouth. This battery-powered toothbrush has a 14-day battery life. It also features a brush head replacement reminder and a battery indicator light that lets you know when to recharge. Check out this video detailing a tester’s experience of using this toothbrush to know if it will be your perfect fit.
Key Features
- Number Of Modes: 1
- Brush head type: Oval
- Automatic timer: Yes
- Runtime: Up to 14 days on one charge
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Durable
- 14-day battery life
- Automatic timer
- Pressure sensor
Cons
- Small brush head
"This electric toothbrush is superb. Its redesigned head makes cleaning so much more easy. It is easy to maintain and comes with a convenient USB charging. Its cleaning action is on point."
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 9,560 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
Best Durable:Waterpik Complete Care Water Flosser And Sonic Toothbrush
If you are looking for an easy and effective way to brush and floss, then Waterpik Complete Care Water Flosser And Sonic Toothbrush is the best option for you. This space-saving device removes plaque and debris stuck deep between your teeth and below the gum line with proven expertise. The three sonic brushing modes help you clean the areas of your mouth that traditional brushing and flossing can’t reach. It features sonic toothbrush technology and a high-volume reservoir that runs at a speed of 90+ seconds. This rechargeable toothbrush comes with a premium travel case, a storage case, 2 brush heads, 5 water flosser tips, a finder plate, an orthodontic tip, and a pik pocket tip.
Key Features
- Number Of Modes: 3
- Brush Head Type: 1 standard brush head and 1 compact brush head
- Automatic Timer: No
- Run Time: Up to 14 days on one charge
Pros
- Rechargeable
- Durable
- Deep cleaning
- 360-degree swivel head
- 10 floss settings
- 2-year warranty
- Easy to use
- Effective results
Cons
- Battery issues
Best For All Ages:Platypus Orthodontic Toothbrush
The Platypus Orthodontic Toothbrush is your ultimate best friend if you have got braces recently. The toothbrush is made to suit and fulfill every requirement of proper oral cleaning with braces. It can be easily used around stainless steel or resin orthodontic structures without causing any damage. The soft bristles move around the braces easily while protecting the gums with proven expertise. The shorter inner and longer outer bristles give easy access to the brackets ensuring no tooth decay occurs with a thorough cleaning.
Pros
- Convenient shape
- Silicone grip
- Short inner bristles
- Easy to use
Cons
- None
"I've had braces for so long now and this toothbrush has become a savior. It is great for cleaning hard-to-reach areas without being harsh on the gums. It has soft bristles that does not cause any bleeding."
Philips Sonicare 4100 ProtectiveClean Power Toothbrush Best Rechargeable | Waterpik Complete Care Water Flosser And Sonic Toothbrush Best Durable | Platypus Orthodontic Toothbrush Best For All Ages | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required | 1 Product Specific batteries required | - |
| Dimensions | 2.56 x 6.81 x 9.33 inches | 6.25 x 7.25 x 8.75 inches | 9.49 x 2.66 x 2.99 inches |
| Weight | 2.08 Ounces | 2.47 Pounds. | 0.71 Ounces. |
| Color | - | - | White, Green |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 9,560 | 1,598 | 58 |
| Price | $49.99 | $119.99 | $5.99 |
Best Ergonomic Design:Oral-B Deep Sweep 1000 Electric Rechargeable Power Toothbrush
Oral-B Deep Sweep 1000 Electric Rechargeable Power Toothbrush is powered by Braun. It offers clinically-proven superior cleaning. It is designed with pressure sensor technology that stops pulsations when you brush too hard. Many reviewers agree that the triple-action cleaning formula of this toothbrush removes up to 100% more plaque than a regular manual toothbrush. Also, its in-handle timer pulses every 30 seconds to let you know when to move to other areas of the mouth.
Key Features
- Number Of Modes: 1
- Brush Head Type: Triple-sided bristles
- Automatic Timer: Yes
- Run Time: Up to 7 days on one charge
Pros
- Pressure sensor
- On-handle timer
- Easy to hold
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- Short battery life
- Slightly rough bristles
"I've been using this electric toothbrush for quite some time now. It has made my dental hygiene routine more efficient. It is very easy to use with its head movement and timer."
Best For Teeth-Whitening:Colgate Wisp Max Fresh Toothbrush
The Colgate Wisp Max Fresh Toothbrush is small-sized and perfect for cleaning hard-to-reach areas. Its size and shape also makes it convenient to work around the braces. The tried-and-tested product is multifunctional. It comes in a travel size and can be carried anywhere easily. Many reviewers love this toothbrush as it requires no rinsing, so you can use it wherever you feel like. It is sugar-free, gluten-free, and removes surface stains, resulting in whiter teeth. Check out this video to explore a reviewer’s experience of using this toothbrush to learn more about its benefits.
Pros
- Convenient design
- Travel-friendly
- Rinse-free
- Sugar-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- None
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 3,433 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
Best Non-Slip Grip:Dr. Collins Perio Toothbrush
Dr. Collins Perio Toothbrush is a long-lasting soft toothbrush. It features polyester bristles that penetrate between the teeth to remove plaque and debris, providing a smooth and hassle-free user experience. These polyester bristles are ultra-soft and slim, which prevents enamel abrasion and reduces the chances of cavities. These bristles are also less porous than nylon, thus minimizing bacterial growth. The unique tapered filaments enter deep between the teeth for gentle gum massaging without causing pain or bleeding. This soft-bristled brush is great for people with sensitive teeth, gum recession, braces and works as an after-gum therapy. Also, it contains tea tree oil and magnolia bark, which are natural antiseptics that fight bacteria and freshen your breath.
Pros
- Easy to hold
- Long-lasting
- Super-soft bristles
- Ergonomic neck design
- Non-slip thumb grip
Cons
- Bristles fall out easily
"This toothbrush is gentle yet effective at the same time. It has been working well for my sensitive teeth and gums. It has soft bristles that allow for a comfortable brushing experience without causing discomfort."
Best Flossing Bristles:Doctor Plotka's Mouthwatchers Antimicrobial Floss Bristle Silver Toothbrush
Doctor Plotka’s Mouthwatchers Antimicrobial Floss Bristle Silver Toothbrush is a high-quality toothbrush for adults. It is designed with Silver Bristle Technology that naturally eliminates 99.9% bacteria in 6 hours. The bacteria also cannot survive on the brush. As per reviews, the two-tiered revolutionary flossing bristles provide superior cleaning. These long, soft, firm bristles remove plaque from areas that a standard toothbrush cannot reach. This bristle protection toothbrush works gently on the enamel and gums. It also features a comfort-grip handle.
Pros
- Dual-layered flossing bristles
- Removes odor-causing bacteria from the tongue
- Gentle on the enamel
- Comfort-grip handle
- Soft and gentle bristles
Cons
- May hurt gums
"I've been consistently using this toothbrush. It has soft and sturdy bristles. They thoroughly clean teeth as well as the tongue. The unique design gently tackle plaque."
Best For Sensitive Gums:TEPE Angle Interdental Brushes
TEPE Angle Interdental Brushes are angled and extra-long toothbrushes for back teeth, implants, and braces. These angled bristle toothbrushes are designed to remove plaque from the gaps between the inside of your teeth and gums. Many reviewers agree that these coated soft-wire toothbrushes will help you protect your sensitive gum area and promote your gum health. The ergonomic grip of these interdental brushes helps you remove excess plaque from hard-to-reach areas.
Pros
- Angled head
- Extra-long and flat handle
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Cleans the interdental spaces
Cons
- Flimsy
"These dental brushes has been very useful for those hard-to-reach spots. They even come with a convenient cap for travel. My daughter, who struggles with flossing, found them quite easy to use."
Best Odor-Free:GUM End-Tuft Toothbrush
The GUM End-Tuft Toothbrush is specifically designed to enable you to reach the hard-to-reach corners of your mouth and clean them properly. The ergonomic shape of the brush makes it easy to clean the gum areas. The material is soft enough to not cause any further damage. Based on expert evaluation, the gum care toothbrush can effectively clean your teeth if you have braces or have been through other orthodontic procedures. This oral appliance will also come in handy to clean your molar areas if you have a wisdom tooth extraction.
Pros
- High-quality food-grade material
- Ergonomic grip
- Sturdy
- Easy to use
Cons
- None
"I love using this product to brush those hard-to-reach spots without triggering a gag reflex. The brush is powerful that deeply cleans the teeth and massages the gums. It is perfect for those follow-up sweeps post regular brushing."
Best In Budget:Dental Aesthetics Orthodontic Toothbrush
Dental Aesthetics Orthodontic Toothbrush is a V-trim brush that cleans around fixed supports, removing plaque, and accumulated debris. This V-shaped bristle toothbrush has an interproximal brush attached to the other end that effectively cleans around and under wires and brackets. Many reviewers agree it is an excellent choice as its soft bristles are gentle and protective for sensitive gums. It is a set of 4 toothbrushes available in 4 different colors.
Pros
- Easy to use
- V-trim brush head
- Set of 4 toothbrushes
- Easy to use
- Soft bristles
Cons
- None
"These orthodontic toothbrushes are perfect for maintaining dental hygiene. I love using them for my braces. They have a proxabrush tip that does a great job of cleaning around brackets."
Now, let’s answer some important questions regarding braces.
Is It Better To Use An Electric Toothbrush On Braces?
Electric toothbrushes have some advantages over manual toothbrushes when it comes to braces. They might be more efficient at cleaning their teeth. If used properly, electric toothbrushes might help with removal of the plaque buildup more effectively than manual models, and might even outperform manual brushes during and after orthodontic procedures for various reasons.
Why Are Brushing And Flossing So Important For Braces?
Nearly 35-40% of the surface of your teeth is missed while regular brushing, even when you don’t wear braces. Flossing or interdental cleaning reaches into those tight gaps between the teeth and cleans those hard-to-reach areas. Generally, most fixed brace-wearers should brush and floss at least one more time each day than they would before getting braces to maintain good oral health.
Now that you know everything about toothbrushes for braces, check out the desirable features listed below to pick the best one for your needs.
Desirable Features Of An Electric Toothbrush For Braces
- Timer
It is one of the most important features of an electric toothbrush. The timer may sometimes be referred to as a quad pacer. Some electric toothbrushes have timers run for a 2-minute cycle for the recommended brushing time, while others alert you every 30 seconds to move to a different part of your mouth. It ensures you brush for the right amount of time and evenly.
- Pressure Sensor
Damage to your teeth and gums is likely a consequence of brushing too hard. The added pressure can also break or dislodge a fitting. Therefore, the bristles of the toothbrush need to be gentle on the surface of the teeth. Brushes with built-in pressure sensors detect when excessive pressure is being applied, alert you, and prevent you from causing more damage.
- Travel Case
More frequent brushing means your toothbrush has to accompany you at times when normally it would have been left at home. A travel case keeps your brush handle and head together and away from damage. It is easy to store, and it protects the bristles from damage and the brush from being switched on accidentally.
- Battery Life
Many branded toothbrushes have a battery life of 2 weeks. You may brush your teeth more regularly or for longer when you have braces. Thus, you need to check the advertised battery life because increased use means less time between charges.
- Bluetooth Connectivity
Bluetooth connectivity is one of the latest innovations in toothbrushes. It generally works to ensure you are cleaning your teeth and looking after your mouth as best as you can. The supporting apps allow you to set targets, help you track your brushing time, and encourage better cleaning procedures and brushing habits.
When you have braces, you need to take extra care of your teeth. So, you should consider some important parameters while choosing a toothbrush for your braces.
How To Choose The Best Toothbrush For Braces
- Price
There are several toothbrushes available at different price points in the market. You will notice a huge variation in the prices of electric and manual toothbrushes. The more advanced the features, the more expensive the toothbrush will be. So, choose one that is suitable for your needs and within your budget.
- Ergonomic Design
The toothbrush should be easy to hold. Some people prefer manual toothbrushes over electric brushes because of their vibration feature. Furthermore, toothbrushes are available in different colors and sizes. So, always look for an ergonomic design when choosing a toothbrush for braces.
- Settings
Electric toothbrushes have different cleaning modes. So, the one you are considering buying should be easy to operate and have a wide range of settings.
- Charging
Manual toothbrushes don’t require charging. But, electric brushes need to be charged in order to work. Some electric toothbrushes take a lot of time to get charged, while others may require charging only for a few hours. So, check the battery life of the electric toothbrush when buying.
- Bristles
When it comes to toothbrushes, one of the most important things to consider is the bristles. The bristles should be soft and thin because sharp and hard bristles can damage your gums.
If you have just gotten your braces and don’t know how to brush them, check out the next section.
How To Brush Teeth With Braces
It is always better to use an electric or sonic-powered toothbrush if you have braces. You should use the right amount of pressure and rotate your head while brushing. This will provide more effective cleaning and save you time.
This is the front side of your teeth. Don’t forget to remove the plaque along the part of your teeth closest to the gum line.
When you have braces, the inner side of your teeth is usually the easiest to brush because it is not crowded with braces. Move the toothbrush back and forth, up and down, and then in circular motions on the inside of your top and bottom teeth.
Turn your toothbrush perpendicular to the spaces between your teeth. This helps you get to the hard-to-reach crevices that can harbor plaque and food particles.
You need to brush and massage your gums, cheeks, and tongue with the use of tongue cleaner as well because your mouth is full of germs and plaque that feed gingivitis.
Infographic: Important Tips To Follow While Brushing Teeth With Braces
Brushing with braces can be tricky. You need to effectively brush the uncovered portion of the teeth to prevent yellowing and discoloration due to the brace-covered parts. However, do not fret! We bring to you some effective tips to follow when brushing your teeth with braces. Check out the infographic below for more information.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
The Bottom Line
Braces can make the teeth-brushing process somewhat tricky. But fret not because the best braces care toothbrushes are here to save the day. They can keep your teeth healthy and help you flaunt a beautiful smile.They allow you to maintain your wires and keep them clean. The products listed in our articles are durable, rechargeable, have an ergonomic design, and have soft and firm bristles. Try the Philips Sonicare 4100 ProtectiveClean Power Toothbrush for its long battery life, the Waterpik Complete Care Water Flosser And Sonic Toothbrush for a complete oral care system that removes plaque and bacteria from the mouth with ease, or even the Tepe Angle Interdental Brushes for being effective at cleaning between the teeth. They are easy to use and can clean even the most hard-to-reach corners of your mouth. However, avoid devices that have short battery life or flimsy bristles. Read customer reviews before making a purchase. You may also consult a healthcare specialist to be sure of your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which toothbrush is the best for getting rid of plaque and bacteria in my braces?
The Philips Sonicare 4100 ProtectiveClean Power Toothbrush is 7x times more effective in getting rid of plaque. It is also suitable for use with various dental tools and modifications.
How often should I brush my teeth with braces?
Ideally, if you are wearing braces, you should brush after every meal to remove the food particles stuck to them or the teeth.
How often should replace the head of the toothbrush for braces?
Replacing your toothbrush heads after every three months is ideal if you are wearing braces.
Can I use a normal toothbrush while wearing braces?
Yes, you can use a normal toothbrush for your braces. But, it is better to use specially designed brushes with soft, flexible bristles and ergonomic brush heads to clean around the braces.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Aditi Naskar, has a health and wellness diploma. Her thorough understanding of various health devices helps bring the best compilations for the readers. This list of best toothbrushes for braces is curated after extensive research and sifting many user reviews on trusted online forums. The shortlisted products effectively clean the teeth and braces. They are also easy to use and are long-lasting.
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