11 Best Toothbrushes for Braces to Maintain Proper Dental Hygiene

Written by Shebna V, Health & Fitness Coach
Updated on Feb 12, 2024
Best Toothbrushes for Braces to Maintain Proper Dental Hygiene
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Braces are an effective way to achieve a straight, beautiful smile, but they can also be tricky to maintain. Proper oral hygiene is essential for anyone, but even more so for those with braces. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy while wearing braces may require extra effort, and one of the most important tools is a good toothbrush. But not just any toothbrush – one specifically designed for braces. It's important to find the best toothbrushes for braces to get the job done properly. 

As per our contributor Dr. Karen Conn, a board-certified orthodontist and co-owner - Bryn Mawr Orthodontics, there are many different types of toothbrushes and some can be more abrasive and harder on our teeth and gums. “I usually recommend a soft bristle toothbrush for all my patients whether they’re in braces, Invisalign or out of treatment. There are a few different types of toothbrushes that are designed for people with braces. Some of the most popular options include orthodontic toothbrushes, and electric toothbrushes. If you have Invisalign, you can use a regular toothbrush to clean your teeth. You should also use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste.”, she adds.

An ergonomic toothbrush with a larger, easier-to-grip handle could make it easier for younger children with braces to adequately clean their teeth and braces and [get to] those harder-to-reach places,” said Ghias Jabbour, DDS, owner of Blanco Crossing Dental.

With the right braces toothbrush and proper brushing techniques, you can keep your braces clean, your teeth healthy, and your smile shining. But as there are so many options on the market, it can be difficult to find the ultimate toothbrush for braces. Here is our list of top 11 products that offer special features and can help keep your braces clean and healthy.

11 Best Toothbrushes for Braces

It is the perfect choice for taking your oral hygiene to the next level. This toothbrush features advanced sonic technology, which works to clean your teeth and gums more effectively to help reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and plaque buildup. For added convenience and comfort, the brush has an ergonomic handle and a two-minute timer to help ensure you brush for the recommended amount of time. It also comes with two interchangeable brush heads and three brushing modes to provide you with customized brushing and maximum plaque removal. With a rechargeable battery and a charging stand, you can keep your toothbrush powered and ready to use. Get this best toothbrush for braces and start achieving better oral health today.

Pros
  • Dentist recommended
  • Customizable
  • Brushing timer
  • Pressure sensor
  • Three brushing modes
  • Long lasting battery life
Cons
  • Poor packaging
  • Terrible charging stand
  • Artificial Intelligence Guide

    Oral-B Genius X Limited AI Toothbrush

    Oral-B Genius X Limited AI Toothbrush
  • It is the ultimate solution for your daily oral care. This advanced electric toothbrush features an AI-driven brushing experience to provide superior cleaning and superior health. The brush head is designed to reach deep between teeth and along the gum line to reduce plaque buildup, while the AI-driven brushing algorithm ensures an optimal brushing experience. Plus, it comes with one replacement brush head and a travel case, so it’s perfect for travel or home use. With this good electric toothbrush for braces, you’ll enjoy a smarter brushing experience for a healthier smile.

    Pros
    • Dentist recommended
    • Personalized oral care
    • 6 cleaning modes
    • Bluetooth technology
    • Artificial intelligence guide
    • Battery lasts for two weeks
    Cons
    • Pricey
    • Loud noise
  • Perfect Value Pack For Entire Family

    REACH Essentials Toothbrush

    REACH Essentials Toothbrush
  • The REACH Essentials Toothbrush designed to provide a superior clean to keep your teeth and gums healthy. The angled soft bristles reach deep into hard to reach areas, while the contoured handle ensures a comfortable grip. The unique toothbrush caps helps keep the bristles clean and hygienic and the built-in tongue scraper provides an easy and effective way to remove bacteria and debris. Enjoy a thorough and complete clean with it.

    Pros
    • Ergonomic contoured handle
    • Angled neck
    • Includes toothbrush caps
    • Built-in tongue scraper
    • Can be used easily
    • Great value pack for entire family
    Cons
    • Not very soft
    • Not for daily use
  • Y-Kelin V-shaped Orthodontic Toothbrush

    Y-Kelin V-shaped Orthodontic Toothbrush
  • The Y-Kelin V-Shaped Orthodontic Toothbrush Soft Bristle will provide you with a superior clean. Its unique V-shaped head has been designed to easily reach between teeth and around braces or other orthodontic appliances. With soft bristles, this toothbrush ensures a gentle clean, removing plaque and debris with ease. The inter-dental brush included is great for reaching hard to clean areas, making sure your smile is always at its best. With its hygienic and durable construction, this orthodontic toothbrush for braces is sure to help you maintain healthy and strong teeth.

    Pros
    • Safe
    • No toxic materials
    • High quality bristles
    • Suitable size
    • Convenient
    • Great for daily use
    Cons
    • Not for adults
    • Costly
  • Dental Aesthetics Orthodontic Toothbrush

    Dental Aesthetics Orthodontic Toothbrush
  • It provides superior dental hygiene for orthodontic patients. Its double-ended brush with an interproximal head allows for complete cleaning of braces in hard-to-reach areas. The unique V-trim design provides a more comfortable brushing experience, while its ergonomic handle ensures a secure grip. This toothbrush is an ideal choice for orthodontic patients who need an effective and easy-to-use cleaning tool. The bristles are made of soft, durable nylon and are designed to reach deep into the grooves of the braces to remove food particles and plaque. Get this toothbrush for braces and achieve a brighter, healthier smile.

    Pros
    • Very gentle
    • Battery-powered
    • Multi-pack
    • Not very flexible handle
    • Easy to use
    • Great for kids
    Cons
    • May loose bristles fast
    • Costly
  • GUM End-Tuft Toothbrush

    GUM End-Tuft Toothbrush
  • It is the ideal tool for those hard-to-reach areas that are often neglected when brushing. Its soft bristles are designed specifically to get into those hard-to-reach spots, ensuring that your teeth and gums stay healthy and clean. With its ergonomic handle, this toothbrush is comfortable and easy to use, making it the perfect choice for brushing your teeth. Not only is it effective at reaching those hard-to-reach spots, but it's also gentle enough to use on sensitive teeth and gums. Start taking better care of your teeth and gums with this braces toothbrush.

    Pros
    • Recommended by dental professionals
    • Small tapered head
    • Easy to use
    • Instant result
    • Perfect for wisdom teeth
    • High durability
    Cons
    • Too softer
    • Overpriced
  • Travel-Friendly

    GUM - 124KK Orthodontic Kit

    GUM - 124KK Orthodontic Kit
  • It is the absolute kit for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. This comprehensive kit includes an orthodontic toothbrush, 3 proxabrush sizes, easythread floss, and mint ortho wax. The orthodontic toothbrush is designed to help straighten your teeth and improve your smile. The 3 proxabrush sizes allow for customized brushing for your individual needs. The EasyThread Floss helps ensure that plaque and food particles are removed from between your teeth and gums. The Mint Ortho Wax helps to seal the orthodontic wire in place and helps to prevent the wire from slipping or moving. With this orthodontic brush, you can be sure that you are taking the best care of your teeth and gums.

    Pros
    • Recommended by dentists
    • Specialized for orthodontics
    • Perfect handle size
    • Easy to use
    • Travel-friendly
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Expensive
  • Affordable

    TEPE Implant Orthodontic Soft Toothbrush

    TEPE Implant Orthodontic Soft Toothbrush
  • Keep your smile healthy and sparkling with this toothbrush. It features an extra narrow brush head and thin neck for comfortable and effective cleaning. The ergonomic design is comfortable to hold and the soft bristles are gentle on delicate gums. The brush is specially designed to reach hard to access areas, so you can be sure your teeth and gums are getting the best possible clean. Its compact size and lightweight design make this brush for braces perfect for carrying in your handbag or pocket.

    Pros
    • Developed in collaboration with dental experts
    • Extra-slim brush head
    • Adjustable neck
    • Compact tuft brush
    • Bridge and implant floss
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • A bit thin
    • Loose bristles
  • Oral-B Expert Orthodontic Toothbrush

    Oral-B Expert Orthodontic Toothbrush
  • Get the most effective cleaning around braces with the Oral-B Toothbrush. This orthopedic toothbrush features soft bristles that are gentle enough to clean around your braces without causing irritation. The angled head helps you reach every corner of your mouth, while the multi-level bristles effectively remove plaque and food particles. The handle is designed to fit comfortably in your hand and the 6-pack makes it easy to replace your toothbrush when needed. Keep your oral hygiene in check with this Oral-B for braces toothbrush.

    Pros
    • Climate Pledge Friendly
    • Recommended by dentists
    • Long narrow neck
    • V-trimmed bristles
    • Comfort grip
    • Battery-powered
    Cons
    • Not very soft
    • Costly
  • Fremouth V-shaped Orthodontic Toothbrush

    Fremouth V-shaped Orthodontic Toothbrush
  • Get the deep clean you need while protecting your braces with this toothbrush. It is designed with a unique V-shaped head to fit around brackets and wires, providing a deep, thorough clean without damaging your braces. The soft bristles clean effectively without irritating delicate and sensitive gums, while the ergonomic handle makes brushing easier and more comfortable. Plus, the 6-count pack means you'll always have a fresh brush on hand.

    Pros
    • Small brushing head
    • Includes 6 interdental brushes
    • Comfortable handle
    • Comes with brush heads
    • Ultra-soft tapered bristles
    • Great for orthodontic people
    Cons
    • Sheds after first use
    • Expensive
  • Ceonam 4 Pieces Tuft Toothbrush

    Ceonam 4 Pieces Tuft Toothbrush
  • Enjoy healthier teeth and gums with Ceonam Tuft Toothbrush. This small toothbrush for braces features a single, compact interdental interspace brush that is designed to reach deep into tight spots and between orthodontic wires. Its soft trim wisdom toothbrush is perfect for comfortably cleaning the hard-to-reach areas of your teeth. The ergonomic handle is designed for comfortable handling and easy maneuvering.The four pieces in this set provide all the cleaning power you need for superior oral hygiene.

    Pros
    • Professional dental products brand
    • Fits most people
    • Suitable for orthodontic people
    • Can be used post surgery
    • Convenient to carry
    • Great for daily use
    Cons
    • Small size
    • A bit bulky

    How to Choose Toothbrush for Braces?

    If you wear braces, you know that taking extra care of your teeth and gums is vital. One of the most important tools for your oral hygiene routine is a toothbrush. Choose the right type of toothbrush for your braces to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy. 

    Type of Bristles: When choosing brushes for braces, the most important factor to consider is the type of bristles. Soft bristles are generally recommended for people with braces because they are gentler on the delicate surfaces of the teeth and gums. Hard bristles can cause more damage and are more likely to get caught in brackets and wires, which can lead to pain and discomfort. 

    Material of Bristles: Another factor to consider when choosing an orthodontist toothbrush is the material of the bristles. Nylon bristles are the most popular option, as they are gentle and effective. However, some people may prefer other materials, such as boar hair or soft-bristled toothbrushes.

    Size and Shape: It's also important to choose an orthodontic brush for braces with the right head size and shape. For braces, it's best to opt for a toothbrush with a narrow head and a tapered profile to ensure easy access to all the hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. Additionally, the toothbrush should have a comfortable handle and the bristles should extend slightly beyond the head to ensure complete cleaning.

    Budget: Budget should be one of the considerations. Although there are a variety of options for toothbrush for braces, ranging from basic manual toothbrushes to more expensive electronic models, the best option for braces is usually a manual toothbrush with soft bristles. The best manual toothbrush for braces are typically the most cost effective and are designed to remove plaque and debris from the teeth and braces.

    Finally, be sure to replace your best toothbrushes for braces every three to four months. This ensures that your toothbrush is clean and the bristles remain in good condition.

    When it comes to oral hygiene for those with braces, having the right toothbrush for the job is necessary. It is important to find the best toothbrush for braces in order to ensure proper brushing and flossing of braces. It is recommended to choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head, as well as one that is specifically designed for cleaning braces. Additionally, brush and floss regularly in order to ensure the best oral hygiene and health. Our top rated orthodontic toothbrushes are gentle on braces and can effectively remove plaque and food debris. Different types of toothbrush heads are also available for braces wearers, allowing for further customization of the cleaning experience. Ultimately, the perfect toothbrush for braces is the one that fits the user's needs and provides the most effective cleaning experience.

    Contributor: Dr. Karen Conn, Board-certified Orthodontist and Co-owner - Bryn Mawr Orthodontics.

    FAQ's

    What type of toothbrush is best for braces?
    The best type of braces toothbrush is a soft-bristled brush. This type of brush is gentle on the delicate wires and brackets of braces, while still providing effective cleaning. Additionally, choosing a toothbrush with a small head can help to make brushing easier and more effective. Additionally, an angled neck can help to clean hard to reach areas and provide a more comfortable brushing experience. With the right toothbrush, braces wearers can maintain optimal oral hygiene and keep their smiles healthy.
    Is an electric toothbrush better for braces?
    Electric toothbrushes for braces can be a great addition to your oral care routine when you have braces. It can help you keep your braces clean and free of plaque and bacteria, and also help you easily reach all of your teeth. The extra features of the best electric toothbrush for braces, such as timers, pulsations, and pressure sensors, can also make the brushing process easier and more efficient. Ultimately, the decision of whether to use an electric toothbrush or a manual toothbrush with braces is up to the individual and their dentist.
    Is there a special brush for braces?
    There are special toothbrushes specifically designed for cleaning braces. These brushes are usually smaller than regular toothbrushes, have angled bristles to help reach tight spots around braces, are designed to clean around brackets, wires, and other components of braces and can help to ensure a thorough cleaning. . It is important to use a special toothbrush for braces to make sure that your teeth and braces stay clean and healthy.
    Should I brush my braces with toothpaste?
    Brushing your braces with toothpaste is a must as it helps to effectively remove plaque and bacteria from around the brackets and wires and prevent staining of the braces. Additionally, using soft-bristled toothbrushes for braces and fluoride toothpaste can help ensure your braces stay clean and well-maintained.
    How many times do you brush teeth with braces?
    Brushing your teeth with braces can be a difficult task but it is an important part of maintaining good oral health. It is recommended that you brush your teeth with braces at least twice a day and after every meal to ensure optimal oral health.
    Can I brush braces with a normal toothbrush?
    It is not recommended to brush braces with a regular toothbrush as it may not be able to effectively remove plaque and food particles in the hard-to-reach areas of the braces. Additionally, using a regular toothbrush could lead to damage to the braces and other oral health issues. It is highly recommended to use special toothbrushes for braces and orthodontics which is specifically designed for cleaning braces.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Shebna V, our in-house dental health expert, says that toothbrushes designed for people with braces are important for maintaining oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment. They come with special bristles and brush heads that reach the small and tight spaces between your braces and teeth. After testing all the brushes with the help of a co-worker who wears braces, they mutually decided that the Philips Sonicare 5100 ProtectiveClean Power Toothbrush needed to be at the top of the list. It effectively cleaned the gums, eliminating the risk of cavities, gum disease, and plaque buildup. Plus it is comfortable, has a pleasure sensor, and the battery lasts for a very long time.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Pinkvilla to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

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    Shebna V
    Health & Fitness Coach

    Shebna is a content creator with an experience of over 6 years and likes to delve into all things health and fit More