It is very important to learn how to brush your teeth during your treatment. Keeping good oral hygiene will maintain health of teeth and gums, and prevent oral diseases which can hinder your treatment.
Braces make brushing a little tricky because food particles and plaque can get stuck onto the brackets and teeth. We advise all patients to brush for 3-4 minutes, at least twice a day: morning and night.
Apply fluoridated toothpaste onto toothbrush.
Start by brushing back and forth between the wires and gums on the upper and lower to loosen the food particles.
Then, place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum.
Brush gently in a circular motion. Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
Look in the mirror to see if you have missed any places. Check the gumline and space between the wires and your teeth. If you see any areas you have missed, be sure to brush them again.
Interdental brushes are small brushes that resemble a miniature Christmas tree. These are useful for loosening stubborn plaque trapped between teeth and wires.
We recommend all patients use a type of floss designed for braces to maintain optimum gum health.
Carefully thread one end of the floss under the wire and between your teeth. Floss around the gumline. Repeat on all teeth.
Click link to learn more about Flossing with Braces
To find out more about Braces,
see one of our specialist orthodontists for an assessment.