Brushing With Braces
Farley Orthodontics
Brushing Instructions While You Have Braces
Keeping your teeth clean with braces can be tricky, but it's key for a healthy, beautiful smile. At Farley Orthodontics in The Woodlands, TX, we're here to help you get the best results from your treatment. Our team knows the ins and outs of brushing with braces and can show you how to do it right. Keep reading to learn how to brush your teeth with braces.
Get in touch with us for more tips on caring for your braces and teeth.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing are extra important when you have your braces. That's because there are so many places around your braces for food to get stuff and for plaque to build up.
If you don't like brushing and flossing, just remember the value. If you don't keep your teeth clean with braces, you could end up with permanent stains and two-toned teeth!
Brushing Your Teeth
You should brush your teeth after every meal or snack; flossing is recommended once a day. Use a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste with proper brushing technique.
Brush the outside of your teeth with a circular motion. Then, angle the brush to reach under the wires and between the brackets and gums. Next, brush the back of your teeth with a back-and-forth motion. You should also brush the top and bottom of your gums.
For the best results, brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth and your tongue. Then, rinse and make sure you didn't miss any areas. When flossing, pull the floss between the teeth. A floss threader may help. Work it up and down under your gums. Repeat between every tooth before rinsing.
Cleaning Your Appliances
If you wear removable appliances, take care to keep them clean. Take out your appliances and brush them when you brush your teeth. If you have a retainer, you can also use denture cleaner to maintain a removable appliance.
Using Special Aids
Other aids can help keep your teeth and appliances clean. An electric toothbrush can make brushing easier. It may be more effective than a regular toothbrush. A fluoride mouth wash may also be useful in preventing tooth decay. Use it after you brush and floss your teeth daily.
