When you have orthodontic appliances like braces, it is harder to keep your teeth clean, as there are more spots for food and plaque to accumulate. For that reason, it is more important to brush and floss after each meal. Doing so will prevent tooth decay and will ensure that your teeth are not only straight after the braces are removed, but more importantly that your teeth remain healthy and beautiful.
Brushing With Braces
After each meal, it is important to brush for about two minutes using fluoride toothpaste using gentle, small circular motions, angling the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle. It is recommended that you use a soft toothbrush with a small head or an electric toothbrush. Focus on areas near the appliances or brackets, as this is where plaque will collect the most.
Flossing with Braces
Flossing after each meal will keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. Since a wire prevents flossing from the tips of the teeth to the gums, a special orthodontic flosser or floss threader can be used to guide the floss behind the wire and then down through the contact of the tooth. Move the floss up and down on the sides of each adjacent tooth to remove food debris or plaque. Repeating this process for the contacts between all of your teeth is important.