Wearing Braces: Brushing and Flossing

in Columbia, SC

When wearing braces, brushing and flossing becomes even more important to maintain good oral hygiene. Getting used to it may take some time, but you should keep your teeth clean and healthy.

How to Properly Brush Your Teeth With Braces

Here are some steps on how to properly brush your teeth with braces:

Rinse With Water

Before you brush, rinse with water to help loosen any food lodged around your braces.

Angle Your Brush

Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle. This position helps to clean around the wires and brackets of your braces and encourages optimum cleaning over the gums.

Brush the Outside of Your Teeth

Begin on the outside of your bottom teeth. Rub the toothbrush back and forth across your teeth while gradually moving upwards.

Brush the Inside of Your Teeth

Move the toothbrush back and forth, up and down, with circular motions on the inside of your top and bottom teeth.

Clean the Braces Themselves

Ensure to brush around the wires and brackets of your braces. An interdental brush can be used once a day to clean between the braces and under the wires.

Rinse Well

After brushing, rinse well to remove any leftover toothpaste or food particles.

How to Properly Floss With Braces

Here are some methods and tips on how to floss teeth with braces properly:

Use a Floss Threader

A floss threader can help thread the floss between your teeth above your braces.

The C-Shape Method

Wrap the floss around the tooth in the shape of the letter C and gently move the floss up and down between your teeth.

Using Waxed Floss

Waxed floss can be more effective as it is less likely to get caught and tear on your braces.

Using Interdental Brushes

These brushes can help clean between your teeth when you have braces.

Using a Flosser

Some types of flossers are designed specifically for braces and can be guided beneath the archwire to floss your entire mouth without the need for threading.

Remember to be gentle when flossing to avoid damaging your braces or hurting your gums. Flossing at least once a day is also recommended to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Do I Still Need Regular Professional Dental Cleanings While on Braces?

Regular professional dental cleanings are still necessary when wearing braces. Professional teeth cleanings can and should continue despite the hardware on your teeth. Not only can you get your teeth cleaned with braces, but it’s highly recommended to maintain optimal oral health.

Dental professionals use tools like scalers to remove plaque and tartar buildup around the braces, although the process may take slightly longer due to the need to clean around the braces’ hardware.

Most dentists recommend scheduling cleanings every 4-6 months, though the frequency might vary depending on your particular case. Regular cleanings are crucial because even with braces, plaque and tartar can accumulate, leading to problems like cavities and gum disease.

Talk to Us for Expert Orthodontic Treatment in Columbia, SC

Need more professional advice and guidance on wearing braces? Check out our blogs and contact us if you have any questions.

If you’re still planning on getting braces, schedule a consultation with us at our Columbia, SC office. We will be happy to discuss treatment options and provide you with the best orthodontic care for your specific needs. After assessing your teeth and discussing your goals, we’ll provide you with an individualized treatment plan to give you the beautiful, straight smile you’ve always wanted.