We know that the health of your smile is important to you, that is one of the reasons you got your braces in the first place!  According to the American Dental Association,  not correcting an abnormal bite could lead to various oral health problems ranging from tooth decay and gum disease to abnormal tooth wear or even loss of teeth! However, now that you have braces, you have to be prepared for the fact that cleaning your teeth will be more challenging. So, how do you do it?  At Beach Braces, we are here to help!

Braces can make brushing more difficult, because they provide areas under which food debris can get caught. The frequency and duration of brushing the teeth while wearing braces has to be higher than before, if you are going to maintain the same level of cleanliness. Ideally, you should make brushing a habit after each meal.

To brush your teeth while wearing braces, start by rinsing your mouth really well with water. Rinsing can help remove the loose food particles from your mouth. Brush your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Start at the gum line and position your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. Place your toothbrush on top of the brackets and use short strokes to brush on top of each bracket. the area between the braces and gums is the most critical. Then, brush all the way around each brace. Use gentle circular motions, try to avoid side to side movements. DO NOT SCRUB! Brush gently and thoroughly for two minutes.

Replace your toothbrush at least every 3 months or faster if the bristles start fraying. Floss using a floss threader at least once a day, or if you can after every meal. Using a Waterpik really helps clean between the teeth when you don’t have the time to floss. Cleaning your teeth while wearing braces requires more patience, but it’s worth the time and effort you put into it!

If you have questions on brushing your teeth while wearing braces, contact our orthodontic office in Scarborough!

– The Beach Braces Team