Brushing teeth with braces presents a challenge that almost resembles an obstacle course. You have to brush around the brackets and wires while thoroughly cleaning your teeth and gums. And then, there’s flossing. We’ll get to that part and more as we offer instructions and tips for optimal hygiene while wearing braces. If you are new to orthodontics, you might also want to explore our types of braces.
Which Kind of Brush And Toothpaste Should be Used?
Brushing teeth with braces requires more than the average toothbrush and toothpaste. So choosing the best types ensures better dental hygiene. For starters, you’ll need a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles. In fact, if you can find one with a triangular head, that’s even better. The narrow end can reach into the gaps in between the brackets and wires more easily than your “traditional” rectangular toothbrush.
As far as toothpaste goes, you can check any of the following boxes when looking for the ideal product:
- Flouridated
- ADA-approved
- Formulated for sensitive teeth
Basically, if you’ve been using a toothpaste that fits any of these criteria, no changes are needed. Keep using the same product. For more details on proper care, talk to our orthodontic team.
Instructions for Cleaning or Brushing Teeth
You’ll alter your routine slightly as you start brushing your teeth with braces. It might take a bit longer than “normal,” but soon you’ll grow accustomed to the change in technique.
Rinse Before You Brush
The first step is to rinse your mouth with water or a fluoridated mouthwash before you start brushing. This loosens up the plaque and particles before you start brushing.
Brush Each Tooth One-by-One
First, you’ll brush each tooth above, below, and around the bracket and wires while trying to get as close to the gum as possible. Remember not to place your toothbrush flat on your teeth but rather at an angle to where you reach around the braces.
Brush behind Your Teeth
After you brush the front surface of every single tooth, you’ll need to scrub their crowns like normal and then behind each tooth. This removes even more plaque and particles while preventing tooth decay during the course of your treatment.
Once you’ve finished brushing, you’ll need to do a thorough rinse with water.
Remember to Floss
You’ll also need to floss after every meal to maintain optimal gum health. For the best results, consider using special orthodontic floss, dental tape, and/or a platypus or a harp orthodontic flosser. Whatever method you use, you’ll need to get underneath the wire in order to maneuver the floss in a gentle up-and-down motion.
Rinse Again
After you’ve finished your brushing/flossing routine, you might rinse one more time with mouthwash or water.
Additional tips
Plus, we have some more hints to follow to make your brushing and flossing routine much easier while maintaining healthy oral hygiene.
Keep Your Toothbrush at the Right Angle
Instead of placing the toothbrush flat on the front of your teeth, you’ll hold it at a 45% angle to where the top makes contact with each tooth. Holding your toothbrush at this angle helps you reach over and under each bracket.
Use a Water Flosser
Another option is to use a water flosser in addition to regular flossing which guarantees you’ll get tough food particles out from between your teeth. These devices, though kind of pricey, prove to be effective.
Alter Your Diet
Plus, you’ll need to make some changes to your diet.
This next tip may sound like it relates to brushing teeth with braces, but it will make the whole process–and your treatment go more smoothly. As your orthodontist might’ve explained, you’ll need to change up your diet. One of the biggest helps is to avoid anything that’ll stain your enamel. This includes:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Red wine
- Some fruit juices
- Dark colored fruits and berries
- Soy sauce
You should also steer clear of sticky or “chewy” snacks like gummies, caramel candy, and licorice. By avoiding these foods and drinks, you’ll encounter fewer complications when trying to brush. Better yet, you won’t have to worry about tooth discoloration once your braces come off. For more details, check out our clear braces and traditional braces options.
FAQS
Can I use toothpaste with braces?
Yes. In fact, you should use a toothpaste that contains fluoride, which protects tooth enamel.
Is it okay to brush the actual brackets?
You can brush over the brackets very carefully so as not to damage them or the wires. You’ll move your toothbrush in a slow, gentle circular motion. Remember to use a toothbrush with soft bristles that won’t damage the braces. Also, we can’t stress enough the importance of gentle motions with your toothbrush. You don’t have to use extreme pressure or a quick speed to clean your teeth thoroughly.
Should I use mouthwash with braces?
You can use a mouthwash that contains fluoride and won’t stain your teeth, but don’t forget to rinse with water first.
Conclusion
As you’ll see during the course of your orthodontic treatment, brushing your teeth with braces may take longer than before, but the results are worth it. By following these tips, you’ll keep your gums and teeth healthy throughout your treatment. For more guidance, explore our blog on Do Braces Hurt? or learn about the full range of orthodontic services we provide at Ziehmer Orthodontics.
