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4 tips for braces care

Having braces is no excuse to slack on dental hygiene. Follow these tips and tricks to keep your teeth and gums healthy during your orthodontic treatment.

1. Brush carefully

A toothbrush can remove debris from teeth and braces.

Don’t let food get trapped in your braces. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove debris from your teeth, brackets and wires. If your current toothbrush isn’t doing the job, consider getting an orthodontic toothbrush. With V-shaped bristles, these toothbrushes are designed to fit around braces.

2. Brush in between your brackets

An interdental toothbrush can clean spaces between teeth and braces wires.

Use an interdental toothbrush to clean the spaces between the metal and your teeth.

3. Don’t forget to floss

Floss under the wires of your braces.

Flossing every day is especially important when you’ve got braces. Having trouble getting the floss under the wires? Just use a floss threader with regular floss or buy special stiff-tipped floss made for braces wearers.

4. Stay on top of your appointments

Make sure to visit your orthodontist for regular follow-ups. You’ll also want to make appointments with your regular dentist for cleanings and exams. Some dentists will ask your orthodontist to remove the wires before a cleaning, while others will clean around them.

Caring for teeth with braces

Learn good oral hygiene practices so that you have a healthy smile after your braces are removed.

Last updated October 12, 2021

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The oral health information on this website is intended for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed dentist or other qualified health care professional for any questions concerning your oral health.