Braces are an incredibly effective way to straighten teeth and improve your bite. While this hardware is in place, you may need to make a few adjustments to your oral hygiene routine to navigate brackets and wires. With this in mind, here are a few orthodontist- and dentist-approved recommendations for brushing with braces.

Top 4 Tips for Brushing With Braces

1. Use the Right Toothbrush

Dentists may recommend swapping your toothbrush while you have braces to an electric option with a circular brush head or a manual brush with V-shaped bristles designed to work around brackets and wires. Once you have your dental-team-approved brush, inspect the bristles regularly. The metal wiring of your braces can wear down bristles faster so you may need to replace your brush every two months.

2. Avoid Whitening Toothpaste

Teeth whitening toothpaste can lead to an uneven coloring of your teeth while your braces are in place. To avoid cosmetic issues, ask your dentist for toothpaste recommendations. Odds are they’ll steer you toward a fluoride toothpaste that’s focused on cleaning your teeth, strengthening your enamel, and reducing the risk of decay and plaque buildup.

3. Adjust Your Technique Around the Brackets

A gentle circular motion should still be applied when brushing your teeth. As you navigate each surface of every tooth, take care around the brackets and wires. Work diligently to ensure you can gently brush the front of each tooth around the bracket so that bacteria and food debris are properly removed. While brackets are bonded to your teeth using a strong adhesive, brush carefully to avoid unnecessary damage to this hardware.

4. Don’t Forget to Floss

While the flossing process can be a bit more time-consuming when you have braces, it continues to be a critical component to a healthy oral hygiene routine that not only reduces plaque buildup and tooth decay but also ensures your teeth are bright and stain-free once your braces are removed. Ask your orthodontist for technique recommendations. If needed, try a floss threader or water pick so you can get between the wires of your braces.

If you’re looking for a friendly, modern dental practice in Clark County, GA, that’s known for quality care using cutting-edge technology, Athens Family Dental is your go-to clinic for both general dentistry needs and orthodontics. With over 25 years of experience and a commitment to respecting every patient’s time, you can count on this office for comprehensive care whether you need a dental cleaning or you’re interested in braces or teeth whitening to enhance the beauty of your smile. Call today at (706) 548-3279 to schedule your first appointment, and visit their website for more information on their “under one roof” approach.