How to Brush and Floss Properly With Braces for a Healthier Smile
Getting braces is an exciting step toward a straighter smile, but keeping your teeth clean along the way is just as important. Brackets and wires can make it easier for food and plaque to get stuck, so you’ll need to give your oral hygiene routine a little extra attention. At Belmont Orthodontics in Belmont, MA, Dr. Melita reminds patients that healthy teeth and gums are an important part of achieving a beautiful smile. With the right tools and a few daily habits, keeping your braces clean can become second nature.
Why Does Keeping Your Braces Clean Matter?
Braces have several small spaces where food debris and plaque can hide. When these areas aren’t cleaned regularly, bacteria can build up and increase the risk of cavities, gum inflammation, and permanent white marks on your teeth. Taking a few extra minutes each day to brush and floss thoroughly can help prevent these issues and keep your smile looking its best throughout treatment.
Making Brushing Easier With Braces
Brushing with braces may feel a little tricky at first, but you’ll get the hang of it! Here are some simple ways to make sure your teeth get a thorough cleaning:
- Choose a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Brush gently above and below each bracket to remove trapped food and plaque.
- Don’t forget the backs of your teeth, chewing surfaces, and gumline.
- Spend extra time cleaning around brackets and underneath wires.
- Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day, and whenever possible after meals.
Eating on the go? If you can’t brush right away, swish with water to help clear away leftover food until you can brush properly.
Don’t Forget to Floss!
Brushing alone isn’t enough to clean every part of your smile. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and along the gumline. Since braces make traditional flossing a little more challenging, a floss threader can help you slide the floss underneath your archwire. Carefully move it between each tooth, gently cleaning along the sides without irritating your gums. You can also try orthodontic flossers or a water flosser if you want to make the process quicker and easier. Aim to floss once a day to keep your gums healthy.
Tools That Can Make Oral Care Easier
Having a few helpful supplies nearby can make caring for your braces much simpler:
- Interdental brushes: Reach around brackets and beneath wires to remove leftover food.
- Fluoride toothpaste: Helps protect tooth enamel and lower your risk of cavities.
- Water flosser: Uses a stream of water to clean between teeth and around orthodontic appliances.
- Fluoride mouthwash: Adds another layer of cavity protection when recommended by your dental professional.
Remember Your Regular Dental Visits
Even if you’re seeing your orthodontist regularly, don’t forget about your general dentist! Routine dental cleanings and exams are important throughout orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist keeps your teeth moving in the right direction, while your dentist helps make sure your teeth and gums remain healthy.
A Healthier Smile Starts With Good Habits at Belmont Orthodontics
A little extra care each day can make a big difference in protecting your smile while wearing braces. Dr. Melita and the team at Belmont Orthodontics in Belmont, MA, are here to answer your questions, share helpful advice, and make your orthodontic experience as comfortable as possible. Thinking about getting braces in Belmont, MA? Contact Belmont Orthodontics to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options for a healthier, straighter smile!