Oral Hygiene Instructions
Keep your teeth and braces clean for the best results and a healthy smile!
Why Oral Hygiene Is Extra Important with Braces
Braces create extra spaces where food and plaque can accumulate. Without proper cleaning, this can lead to:
- White spots or cavities around brackets
- Swollen, bleeding gums (gingivitis)
- Bad breath
- Extended treatment time
The good news? With the right routine, you can keep your teeth healthy and beautiful throughout treatment!
Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
1
Brush After Every Meal
Brush at least 3 times a day: after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Carry a travel toothbrush for school or work!
Proper Brushing Technique:
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
Angle the brush at 45 degrees toward the gumline
Brush the top of brackets, bottom of brackets, and chewing surfaces
Use small circular motions and brush each tooth for 10 seconds
Brush for a full 2 minutes (set a timer!)
Don't forget to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth
2
Floss Daily
Flossing with braces takes a little longer, but it's essential! Food and plaque hide between teeth where your toothbrush can't reach.
How to Floss with Braces:
A.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
B.
Gently move the floss up and down along the side of both teeth
C.
Curve the floss around the base of each tooth to get beneath the gumline
D.
Remove the floss and move to the next pair of teeth
Pro Tip: Consider a water flosser (like Waterpik) to make the job easier and faster!
3
Rinse with Fluoride Mouthwash
After brushing and flossing, rinse with a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen enamel and reach areas you may have missed.
Use an ADA-approved fluoride rinse
Swish for 30-60 seconds, then spit (don't swallow)
Don't eat or drink for 30 minutes after rinsing
Recommended Tools
Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Replace every 3 months or when bristles fray
Floss Threaders
Makes flossing with braces much easier
Water Flosser
Excellent for cleaning around brackets and wires
Interproximal Brush
Perfect for cleaning between brackets
Mirror Check Before You Leave
Before heading out after a meal, take 30 seconds to check your smile in a mirror. Look for:
- Always keep your retainer in its case
- Never wrap it in a napkin at restaurants
- Keep it away from pets and small children
- Consider getting a backup retainer
A quick check can save you from embarrassment and keep your teeth healthy!
Keep Your Smile Sparkling!
Following these oral hygiene instructions will keep your teeth healthy, prevent treatment delays, and ensure you get the best possible results.