How to Brush Your Teeth with Braces

You might not think of it when getting braces, but brushing your teeth will require some changes in brushing technique. In addition to not being able to floss the same way as before, when you have braces, you have to try to get all detritus out of the braces. Of course, you can’t remove the plaque from the front and back of your teeth with a toothbrush. So, you must also use a rinse/ mouthwash or a water flossing tool that will do something against the plaque. So if you have braces, then follow these “how-to” tips from the best orthodontist in Flower Mound to clean your teeth better!

Steps to Brushing Braces

With proper brushing with braces, the first thing you must do is rinse your mouth thoroughly with either water or a disinfectant mouthwash. This won’t get rid of “stuck-in” material, but it will flush out loose particles and give you a good starting place.

After you’ve rinsed, then it’s brushing time. Be sure to use a brush designed for braces. The best method is to brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. The idea is not only to brush the gum line but also the underside of the braces.

The next step is to do the same thing with the top of the braces. It’s still a 45-degree angle, but it’s reversed because now you’re brushing down instead of up. Reposition the brush as needed, and be sure to brush the wire and behind the wire if possible. It’s essential to brush each tooth at the gum line and each part of the braces.

It’s generally impossible to floss normally with braces. However, you do have options. First, you can use a floss pick that you can push between your teeth from the front. Sometimes, though, the braces push your teeth together, particularly if teeth with too-far spacing are the reason you have braces in the first place. In these cases, it’s a good idea to use a water flosser, which is also known as an oral irrigator. In fact, such a water flosser is a good investment anyway because it will remove even the most recalcitrant of debris.

Once you finish brushing and flossing/irrigating, be sure to rinse again with a disinfectant mouthwash. Removing bacteria will make it easier to maintain oral health.

The Best Orthodontist in Flower Mound

We have more than 35 years of experience in orthodontics, so if you need braces in Flower Mound, then you can trust us to take care of you. We’re patient-focused, so you can feel at ease when you’re in the office. We’ll give it to you straight when it comes to straightening your teeth. Book an appointment today.