Wearing / Caring For Your Braces

How To Brush With Braces

Brushing
Brushing and flossing your teeth can be challenging when wearing braces but it is extremely important that you do both consistently.

Toothbrush bristles should be soft. Brush after every meal. If you cannot brush right away, rinse well with water.

Click here to view Frequently Asked Questions about
Wearing / Caring for your braces.
 

Use circular, vibrating motions around the gum lines, 10 seconds on each tooth.

Use a dry brush with a small amount of toothpaste. Place bristles where gums and teeth meet.

Brush slowly, each arch separately, every tooth.

Brush the lower teeth up and down. Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth too.

Flossing

    

Carefully pull unwaxed floss between wire and braces. A floss threader may be helpful.

Floss carefully around the braces

Floss carefully around the gum

Floss carefully around each tooth.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Q. What if the bands or brackets become loose?

Answer: The seal created by the cement has been broken. Call our office and schedule an appointment. If band or bracket detaches from wire, save it and bring it with you to your next appointment.

Q. What if the archwire of headgear is broken or a hook or ligature is lost?

Answer: These problems could cause the teeth to shift in the wrong direction and must be corrected as soon as possible. Call our office and schedule an appointment.

Q. What if there is a wire sticking out and poking the mouth?

Answer: Try tucking it in with the eraser part of a pencil. If that doesn't work, dry it with a napkin and place wax over the wire to prevent further irritation. Wax can also be applied to a bracket or hook that is causing discomfort.

Q. What if the mouth feels sore?

Answer: To relieve soreness, rinse with warm salt water and/or take Advil or Tylenol as directed.

Q. What if my child plays sports?

Answer: Be sure to mention this to your orthodontist.

Q. What if my child plays a musical instrument?

Answer: Notify your orthodontist if he or she plays a wind instrument or a violin.

Q. Should my child be taking any extra vitamins during treatment?

Answer: It is very important that you get enough Vitamin C during treatment as it helps restore and heal bone and maintain healthy gums. Check with your orthodontist for help in determining which foods might provide enough Vitamin C or how much Vitamin C supplement is necessary.