We know how exciting it is to be on your orthodontic journey. However, keeping your teeth and braces clean is essential to ensure your smile stays healthy and beautiful throughout treatment. Our team wants to help you understand the importance of excellent oral hygiene and how to care for your teeth while wearing braces.
Brushing Your Teeth with Braces
Braces create extra spaces for food particles and plaque to hide, which is why brushing thoroughly is more important than ever. Follow these simple tips to keep your smile sparkling:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Brush at least four times a day: after breakfast, after lunch or school, after dinner and before bed.
- Hold the brush at an angle and move it in small, circular motions to clean around the brackets, archwire and gum line.
- Brush the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
- Do not forget to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth before rinsing.
Taking your time and being gentle will help ensure a thorough clean without damaging your braces.
Flossing with Braces
Flossing with braces may take extra time and patience, but it is essential for preventing plaque buildup and gum issues. Here is how to floss effectively:
- Use a floss threader or Oral-B Super Floss to guide the floss under your archwire.
- Slide the floss gently up and down the sides of each tooth until you hear a slight “squeak” on clean teeth.
- Be careful around the wires and avoid putting too much pressure on them.
- Floss between all teeth, including behind your back molars, every evening before bed.
Healthy Habits for a Confident Smile
Caring for your teeth with braces is the key to achieving a healthy, beautiful smile when treatment is complete. If you have questions about hygiene with braces or need help with your technique, contact Patil Orthodontics at 303-772-7722. Dr. Raj Patil, your dedicated orthodontist in Longmont and Erie, Colorado, is here help you keep your smile on track and shining bright!