How to Clean Your Teeth with Braces: A Step-by-Step Guide
Braces are great for straightening your teeth, but they also make oral hygiene a bit more challenging. Food and plaque can easily get trapped in the brackets and wires, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. To keep your smile healthy throughout your orthodontic journey, follow these steps on how to clean your teeth with braces on.
Rinse Your Mouth
Before brushing, rinse your mouth with water to loosen any food particles stuck in your braces. You can also use a fluoride mouthwash for added protection.
Choose the Right Toothbrush
A soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush with an orthodontic head is ideal. Orthodontic toothbrushes are designed to reach around brackets and wires more effectively. We sell toothbrushes in office if you need one!
Brush at the Right Angle
- Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gumline.
- Brushing above and below the brackets to remove plaque buildup.
- Use gentle circular motions to ensure thorough cleaning.
- Brush each tooth individually for at least 10 seconds.
Use an Interdental Brush
Interdental brushes (tiny cone-shaped brushes) help clean hard-to-reach areas between the brackets and wires. Slide the brush under the wires to remove trapped food and plaque. (In office, we refer to these are the “Christmas Tree Brushes” since that’s what they look like!
Flossing with Braces
Flossing can be tricky with braces, but it’s essential to prevent gum disease. Try these methods:
- Floss Threader: A floss threader helps you weave floss under the wires to reach between teeth.
- Orthodontic Floss: Pre-cut floss with a stiff end makes threading easier.
- Water Flosser: A water flosser uses a stream of water to remove plaque and debris from between teeth and braces. We sell Waterpiks in office at a discounted rate!
Rinse with Mouthwash
Use an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your enamel and wash away leftover debris. Swish it around for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Watch What You Eat
Certain foods can damage your braces and make cleaning harder:
✅ Eat soft foods like yogurt, pasta, and steamed vegetables.
🚫 Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods like caramel, gum, popcorn, and hard candy.
You can learn more about what to eat & not to eat here.
Visit Your Dentist & Orthodontist Regularly
Professional cleanings and check-ups ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy while wearing braces. If we notice a lot of build up at your appointments, we’ll let you know. If the lack in oral hygiene continues, we’ll notify your doctor as well.
Final Tips for Braces Care:
✔ Brush after every meal to prevent plaque buildup.
✔ Carry a travel toothbrush and floss for on-the-go cleaning.
✔ Replace your toothbrush regularly, as braces can wear down bristles quickly.
You may know people that had “white spots” on their teeth after completing their orthodontic treatment. Great oral hygiene can help prevent that from happening, though there are other factors that can cause those “spots” on your teeth, which you can read about here.
By following these steps, you can maintain a clean, healthy smile throughout your orthodontic treatment and ensure your teeth stay strong and cavity-free! 😁🦷
Written in part using ChatGPT.
