Brushing with Braces

Cleaning your teeth and gums is even more important after you get braces. Food can get stuck in your appliances and lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.

Throughout your orthodontic treatment, follow these tips:

• Keep a travel toothbrush with you at all times and brush your teeth four times a day: after breakfast, after lunch or right after school, after dinner, and before bed.
• Use a proxy brush, in addition to your toothbrush, to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• Floss using a super-flosser to remove food that gets trapped between your teeth and brackets. Try a WaterPik or AirFlosser to help loosen food and plaque around your braces.
• Rinse with fluoride for one minute every evening after brushing.
• Continue to schedule regular dental cleanings throughout your orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about how to brush with braces, contact our office!