Brushing & Flossing

Brushing and flossing your teeth can be challenging when wearing braces but it is extremely important that you do both consistently. It is much harder to keep your teeth clean with braces. Food compacts in the brackets and between your teeth, and can only be removed by brushing and flossing. If plaque remains on the teeth for any length of time, it will leave a permanent white scar on the surface.

Flossing is important and should be done every night after brushing. Brushing after every meal should become part of your daily schedule. Use a soft toothbrush with firm pressure and brush at a 45-degree angle to the tooth and gum; brush in small circles above and below the brackets. Your toothbrush will wear out faster because of your appliances, so be sure to replace it whenever the bristles start to fray. If you cannot brush right away, rinse well with water.