After making the decision to straighten your teeth, it is very important to care for your teeth and braces. The brackets, wires, and other parts of your braces will attract plaque and food particles. If not cleaned properly, this can stain or damage the teeth. Dr. Werschky and Dr. Lewis recommend that you brush your teeth morning, night, and after every meal. It is also important that you floss your teeth at least once every day. But how do you brush and floss properly while wearing braces?
Brushing Your Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment
- Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush using gentle, circular motions. Brush down from the top of the teeth and then from the bottom up.
- Take special care when brushing the teeth between the bracket and the gums, as this area is often missed.
- Then brush between your brackets using a proxabrush, which is shaped like a miniature Christmas tree.
- Insert the proxabrush between the arch wire and the teeth and brush with upward and downward strokes.
How to Floss Your Teeth with Braces
- Thread the end of your floss between your teeth and the arch wire. You can use a floss threader to make this easier.
- Gently move the floss back and forth to work it between the teeth.
- Curve the floss under the gums using a C-shaped motion.
- Move the floss up and down to remove plaque.
Cleaning your teeth may take a lot of time at first, but with practice, your oral hygiene routine will go faster. Our dentists may also recommend using a fluoride mouthwash to clean the areas your toothbrush can’t reach. We welcome you to contact Werschky, Lewis & Slatton Family Dentistry today to learn more about braces in Grand Blanc, Michigan, and to schedule your next visit. We look forward to helping you reach a healthier, more attractive smile!