Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is always important, but it’s especially crucial when you have braces. At Lakewood and Claremont Orthodontics, we emphasize the importance of brushing after every meal to prevent plaque buildup around your braces, which can lead to swollen gums, bad breath, cavities, and even discolored teeth. Food particles and plaque can easily get trapped in the brackets and wires, making it essential to clean your teeth thoroughly. Carrying a small toothbrush with you to school, work, or other activities can help ensure that you can brush after every meal, keeping your smile healthy and fresh throughout the day.

Braces can cause your toothbrush to wear out more quickly, so it’s important to replace it when the bristles begin to fray. Worn-out bristles can’t clean effectively, especially around the brackets, which may lead to buildup and potential oral health issues. In addition to brushing, be sure to floss daily using orthodontic floss or a floss threader to reach areas between your teeth and around your braces. At Lakewood and Claremont Orthodontics, we’re here to support you with tips and guidance to help you maintain optimal oral hygiene and ensure the best results from your orthodontic treatment.

Brushing Tips

Brushing Teeth With Braces

Here’s how to brush your teeth effectively with braces:

  1. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush – Gentle on your gums and braces.
  2. Apply a small amount of toothpaste – A pea-sized amount is enough.
  3. Brush in circular motions – Focus on the gum line for about 10 seconds on each tooth.
  4. Brush slowly and thoroughly – Be sure to clean around the brackets and wires.
  5. Brush lower teeth upwards and upper teeth downwards – Helps clean around your brackets.
  6. Don’t forget your tongue and the roof of your mouth – These areas can trap bacteria and cause bad breath.

Following these steps will help keep your teeth and braces clean!

Flossing Tips

Braces, Floss And Closeup Of Woman With Dental Health, Wellness Or Hygiene Morning Routine. Smile, Dentistry And Zoom Of Young Female Person Cleaning Teeth For Fresh Oral Mouth Treatment At Home.

Flossing is essential, but it can be a bit tricky when you have braces. Don’t worry—we’ll show you exactly how to floss properly before you leave our office. Tools like floss threaders and Waterpiks can also make the process easier!

Here’s how to do it:

  1. Carefully pull waxed floss between the wire and brackets.
  2. Floss gently around each bracket to remove food particles and plaque.
  3. Floss around the gum line to keep your gums healthy and free of buildup.
  4. Floss between each tooth to ensure a thorough clean all around.

With practice and the right tools, flossing with braces becomes easier and helps you maintain great oral health throughout your treatment!