How to Brush Your Teeth with Braces A Comprehensive Guide from Aronson Orthodontics on Maintaining Brilliant Oral Hygiene While Wearing Braces Why Proper Brushing Matters with Braces Braces create numerous small spaces where food particles and plaque can accumulate. Without proper cleaning, these areas become breeding grounds for bacteria, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and unsightly staining. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene during Orthodontic treatment ensures your teeth remain healthy and beautiful throughout the process, preventing complications that could extend treatment time. Essential Tools for Brushing with Braces Soft-Bristled Brush Interdental Brushes Fluoride Toothpaste Fluoride strengthens enamel and provides extra protection against decay during orthodontic treatment. Water Flosser Aqualitysoft-bristle toothbrush protects your gums whilst effectively cleaning around brackets and wires. Small proxy brushes reach between wires and under brackets where regular brushes cannot access. Awater flosser provides powerful yet gentle cleaning around brackets, wires, and tight spaces. The Proper Brushing Technique 04 01 02 05 03 Rinse Thoroughly Begin by rinsing your mouth vigorously with water to loosen food particles trapped around your braces. Clean Chewing Surfaces Brush the tops of your teeth thoroughly with back-and-forth strokes, paying attention to molars. Clean Above the Brackets Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle and brush above the brackets using gentle circular motions along the gum line. Use Interdental Brushes Gently insert proxy brushes between wires and teeth to remove stubborn debris from hard-to-reach areas. Brush Below the Brackets Angle your brush downwards and clean below the brackets, ensuring you reach the area between brackets and gums. Flossing with Braces Made Easy Traditional Flossing Thread floss beneath the wire using a floss threader, then move it gently up and down between teeth. Repeat for each gap, taking care not to snap the floss against your gums. Whilst time-consuming, traditional flossing remains highly effective when done properly. Allow 10-15 minutes daily for thorough flossing. Water Flossing Alternative Water flossers offer a quicker, gentler alternative that's particularly effective for braces. Direct the stream between teeth and around brackets at a 90-degree angle. Many patients find water flossers easier and more comfortable than traditional floss, improving compliance with daily cleaning routines. Common Mistakes to Avoid Skipping Between Brackets Food accumulates precisely where brackets meet teeth. Pay extra attention to these vulnerable areas during every brushing session. Brushing Too Quickly Neglecting Your Tongue Bacteria thrive on your tongue's surface. Brush or scrape your tongue daily to maintain fresh breath and oral health. Using Hard Bristles Rushing through brushing leaves plaque behind. Take at least two to three minutes, covering all tooth surfaces thoroughly. Stiff bristles can damage brackets, irritate gums, and cause unnecessary discomfort. Always choose soft-bristled brushes. Your Complete Oral Hygiene Schedule 2 3 4 1 Morning Routine Evening Routine After Meals Rinse vigorously with water and brush if possible. Always carry a travel toothbrush for cleaning after lunch or snacks. Regular Check-ups Visit Aronson Orthodontics for scheduled adjustments and professional cleanings to monitor your progress and oral health. Your most important session. Brush, floss thoroughly, use interdental brushes, and finish with mouthwash before bed. Brush thoroughly for 2-3 minutes after breakfast, floss between teeth, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash for complete protection. Braces-Friendly Foods Foods That Risk Damage Soft fruits like bananas, berries, and melon Cooked vegetables including steamed broccoli and carrots Dairy products such as yoghurt, cheese, and milk Soft proteins like fish, eggs, and tender chicken Pasta, rice, and soft breads Hard foods: nuts, hard sweets, ice, crusty bread Sticky foods: caramel, toffee, chewing gum Crunchy foods: popcorn, crisps, raw carrots Chewy foods: bagels, liquorice, tough meat Foods requiring biting: whole apples, corn on the cob Foods to Enjoy and Avoid The Reward: Your Beautiful Smile The recommended time for thorough cleaning with braces Minimum frequency for optimal oral hygiene during treatment Consistent, proper oral hygiene throughout orthodontic treatment ensures your teeth remain healthy and cavity-free. When your braces come off, you'll reveal not just straight teeth but brilliantly healthy ones free from decay and discoloration. The effort you invest daily in brushing and flossing pays dividends with a stunning, confident smile that lasts a lifetime. Your commitment to oral care during treatment makes all the difference. Essential for removing plaque between teeth and under wires 2-3 Minutes per Brushing 4x 1x Daily Brushing Daily Flossing Contact Aronson Orthodontics We're Here to Help Have questions about brushing with braces? Our experienced team is ready to guide you towards optimal oral health and a stunning smile. Schedule your consultation today and Discover how Aronson Orthodontics makes your orthodontic journey comfortable and successful. Book online at https://www.beautifulsmiles.com/ or call our friendly team Get expert orthodontic advice Convenient location with flexible hours Whether you're beginning treatment or need guidance on proper oral care, we're here to support you every step of the way. Schedule Visit Ask Questions Book Your Appointment Visit Our Practise