Braces are an important step toward achieving a healthier, straighter smile. But when it comes to maintaining oral hygiene, brushing with braces can feel a little more challenging than usual. If you’ve been searching for answers on how to brush your teeth with braces, you’ve come to the right place.
Whether you’re new to braces or just looking for ways to improve your routine, this step-by-step guide will help you ensure your teeth and braces stay clean, healthy, and sparkling.
Let’s get started.
Why Is Proper Brushing Important With Braces?
Braces can create extra nooks and crannies where food particles and plaque tend to hide. Skipping proper brushing with braces can lead to:
- Plaque Build-Up – Which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Stains or Discoloration – Areas of your teeth around your brackets may develop visible white spots after braces removal.
- Bad Breath – Caused by lingering bacteria and food debris.
Taking the time to brush your teeth properly ensures a healthy smile both during and after your orthodontic treatment.
Step-By-Step Guide on How to Brush Your Teeth With Braces
Brushing your teeth with braces requires a little extra care and attention to ensure all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned. By following the steps below, you can protect your teeth from potential issues like cavities and discoloration, keeping your smile healthy throughout your orthodontic journey.
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Rinse Thoroughly Before You Brush
Start by rinsing your mouth with water to loosen any food particles or debris stuck around your brackets and wires. This quick step makes brushing easier and more effective.
This is also a good opportunity to check if any of your braces are loose or broken. If so, contact your orthodontist for an appointment.
2. Choose the Right Toothbrush
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an orthodontic toothbrush with V-shaped bristles. This helps you clean around the brackets and wires more efficiently. You can also invest in an electric toothbrush for optimal cleaning power.
Remember to replace your toothbrush if it’s been three months or the bristles are worn out.
3. Brush at a 45-Degree Angle
Position your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to clean both above and below the brackets. Spend about 30 seconds on each segment of your teeth:
- Outer surfaces: Brush carefully around the brackets and wires.
- Inner surfaces: Don’t forget the sides of your teeth that don’t have braces!
- Chewing surfaces: Clean the tops of your molars thoroughly.
4. Brush Each Tooth Individually
Take your time brushing each tooth with braces. Gently sweep the bristles along the wires to dislodge anything stuck, and make sure to clean between the brackets and gumline.
Thoroughly clean your teeth in a circular motion, moving from one bracket to the next.
5. Use Interdental Brushes
For the hard-to-reach areas between brackets, interdental brushes (or tiny “Christmas tree” brushes) work wonders. Slide them gently between your braces and teeth to remove any debris.
TIP: Keep a few interdental brushes handy for use throughout the day.
6. Don’t Forget the Floss
Flossing with braces requires a little extra effort but is worth it. Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to guide the floss under the wires. Clean between each tooth to keep plaque at bay.
Thoroughly flossing every day also helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
7. Rinse With Mouthwash
Finish your routine with an antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash. This step helps kill bacteria, fight plaque, and strengthen your enamel.
This final rinse also leaves your mouth feeling clean and fresh, giving you the confidence to tackle the day!
8. Check Your Smile
Lastly, take a quick look in the mirror to ensure no spots were missed. Consistency and thoroughness are key to keeping your teeth healthy while wearing braces.
If you notice any issues or have trouble cleaning a specific area, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist for advice.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Here are some extra tips to maintain good oral hygiene and protect your smile during your orthodontic treatment:
- Brush After Every Meal – Keep a travel-sized toothbrush with you to remove food particles immediately.
- Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods – Sticky treats like caramel or hard candies can damage your braces and make cleaning more difficult.
- Replace Your Toothbrush Often – Brushing around brackets wears out bristles quickly, so replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months.
- Use Fluoride Toothpaste – It strengthens your enamel and helps prevent cavities.
FAQ
Q: How do you brush your teeth with braces?
A: Follow the steps in this guide for proper brushing with braces, including rinsing before you brush, using a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, and cleaning each tooth individually.
Q: Can I use an electric toothbrush with braces?
A A: Yes, an electric toothbrush can be more effective in removing plaque around braces. Just make sure to choose one with a small brush head that can easily access all areas of your mouth.
Q: How often should I replace my toothbrush when wearing braces?
A: It’s recommended to replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months or as soon as the bristles
How Pendleton Orthodontics Can Help
Now that you know how to brush your teeth with braces, it’s important to also maintain regular check-ups with your orthodontist.
At Pendleton Orthodontics in Leander, TX, Dr. Ryan Pendleton and his expert team are here to ensure that your orthodontic treatment is not only effective but enjoyable. From tips on oral care to high-quality braces and Invisalign options, we’ve got your smile covered!
If you have questions about braces or need expert advice on maintaining excellent oral hygiene, contact us today for a free consultation.
Remember—brushing may take a little longer with braces, but it’s time well spent for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles!