Maintaining oral hygiene with braces is crucial for both your dental health and the effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment. It’s important to brush and floss after every meal to keep your teeth and gums in top condition. If you’re unsure about which dental care products are best for you, feel free to ask for recommendations on toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss suitable for orthodontic care.
Brushing with Braces
For more effective cleaning, use a soft-bristled, small-headed toothbrush or a powered toothbrush. Spend two minutes brushing after each meal, using gentle, circular motions and ensuring you cover all surfaces of your teeth and braces. Angle the brush at 45 degrees to the gum line and use back-and-forth strokes on the chewing surfaces and inside surfaces of your front teeth, paying extra attention to the areas around your brackets and appliances.
Flossing with Braces
Flossing is essential to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line, areas your brush might miss. Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to navigate the floss behind each wire. Hold the floss taut between your fingers, and gently move it up and down between your teeth. If you struggle to remove all debris, consider using a water flosser, which can be more effective and easier to use with braces.