Brushing & Flossing with Braces
Brushing with Braces
Brushing with Braces
Frequency and Timing
Brush your teeth at least three times a day — after each meal and before bed. If you're not able to brush after a meal, rinsing your mouth with water can help dislodge food particles until you can brush properly.
Tools
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush designed for orthodontic care. Orthodontic toothbrushes have bristles arranged in a way that makes it easier to clean around braces and wires.
Technique
Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and brush in small, circular motions. Ensure you clean all surfaces of the teeth and braces, including the fronts, sides, and chewing surfaces, as well as the areas above and below the brackets. Spend about 10 seconds on each tooth before moving to the next one, and don't forget to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth to remove bacteria.
Flossing with Braces
Frequency
Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can't reach.
Tools
Flossing with braces can be challenging, but tools like floss threaders, orthodontic flossers, or water flossers can make the process easier and more effective.
Interdental Brushes and Water Flossers
Interdental brushes can be used to clean around brackets and wires. Water flossers are also an excellent tool for cleaning around orthodontic appliances, using a stream of pulsating water to remove food particles and plaque.
Technique
Using about 18 inches of floss and a floss threader, thread the floss behind the wire. Gently move the floss up and down between two teeth, reaching the gum line. Be careful not to snap the floss into the gums. Repeat this process for each tooth, using a clean section of floss each time.
Additional Tips for Orthodontic Care
- Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods: These can damage your braces and make cleaning more difficult.
- Use Fluoride: A fluoride mouthwash can help prevent tooth decay and white spots on your teeth.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Continue to see your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups throughout your orthodontic treatment.
- Be Patient and Thorough: Orthodontic care requires time and effort, but the results are worth it. Taking
the time to clean your teeth and braces properly will ensure a healthy and beautiful smile.
Brushing and flossing with braces might seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it can become a manageable part of your daily routine. At Vista Orthodontics, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions about oral hygiene during your orthodontic treatment or need additional guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us. Your journey to a straighter, healthier smile is a team effort, and we’re dedicated to ensuring you achieve the best possible results.
