Before getting braces, you probably completed your oral hygiene regimen on autopilot. Once your metal brackets and wires are in place, however, you have to adapt. For many patients, establishing a simple and effective brushing and flossing routine with braces seems nearly impossible. If you’re currently in that boat, don’t worry – here’s a quick guide to help!

How To: Floss with Braces

Flossing at least once a day is crucial. Since some studies have found that flossing before brushing can help prevent plaque build-up, consider completing your oral hygiene routine in that order. Here’s where to begin:

• Rinse with clean water. This will loosen food particles and debris from your braces.
• Use a water flosser. Water flossers can flush away debris from tight spaces, streamlining your flossing regimen. Just make sure to get instructions from your orthodontist on how to use it properly.
• Floss between each tooth. Using traditional or pre-threaded floss, remove food particles, plaque, and debris from between each tooth and along the gumline.

How To: Brush Your Teeth with Braces

Brushing your teeth with braces may seem complicated at first. Luckily, with the right steps in place, the entire process can become much more seamless. With this in mind, here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Gather the right tools. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride.
• Brush for two full minutes after each meal. Make sure to brush along the top and bottom of each bracket in the process.
• Rinse and repeat as needed. Once you’re done, take a look at your teeth in the mirror. If there is still debris in your braces, brush your teeth again.

Additional Oral Hygiene Tips for a Healthy Smile

There is no denying the importance of brushing and flossing. There are, however, a few essential best practices that your oral hygiene regimen would be incomplete without. To start, visit your dentist every six months for a dental checkup and cleaning. This will help catch dental problems in the early stages while simultaneously preventing additional ones from developing. Secondly, fill your plate with smile-friendly foods, like lean proteins, raw vegetables, and fresh fruit. Lastly, make sure to avoid unhealthy habits, like chewing on ice, smoking, and using your teeth as tools to open things.

Prioritizing your oral hygiene routine is essential. Otherwise, removing your braces will reveal brittle, stained, and decayed teeth. So, don’t neglect your brushing and flossing regimen. With the above guide, it’s easier than ever!

About the Practice

Simply Orthodontics is home to a team of smile-enthusiasts who want your teeth to be both healthy and beautiful. For this reason, we go above and beyond to help our patients create a simple, but effective, oral hygiene regimen. So, if you’re having trouble brushing and flossing your teeth with braces, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at (508) 250-0170. Otherwise, you can bring it up at your next check-in appointment!