Brushing Tips With Braces

Getting braces is a big step toward the smile you’ve always wanted — but while your braces are doing their job, your oral care routine needs a little extra attention too.

Brackets and wires create more places for food to hide, and if plaque builds up around them, it can lead to swollen gums, weakened enamel, permanent white spots, and bad breath. The good news? A few small adjustments to how you brush, floss, and rinse will keep your smile healthy from day one of treatment to the big reveal.

Brushing With Braces

A powered toothbrush makes a noticeable difference over a manual one, especially around brackets and wires. Hold the brush lightly against your teeth at a slight angle, and let the bristles do the work — no scrubbing needed. Move slowly from tooth to tooth, making sure to clean:

• Above and below each bracket
• Along the gumline
• The back molars and chewing surfaces
• Your tongue, to finish things off

Brush for two full minutes, twice a day, and swap your brush head every three months.

Flossing Around Wires

Flossing with braces takes a little more patience, but it’s essential for reaching what your toothbrush can’t. A floss threader (or orthodontic floss with a stiffened end) lets you get under the wire between each tooth. Curve the floss into a C-shape at the gumline on each side, and rethread carefully before moving to the next tooth — pulling too fast can loosen a bracket.

Some light bleeding in the first week of a new flossing routine is normal and should ease up as your gums get healthier.

Finish With a Rinse

A quick swish with mouthwash after brushing and flossing helps clear away anything left behind, keeping your breath fresh and your mouth extra clean.

Questions? We’re Here to Help

Every smile is different, and our team is happy to walk you through the best routine for your specific treatment. Don’t hesitate to ask us at your next visit!