Oral Hygiene with Braces
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy during orthodontic treatment
Why Oral Hygiene Is Extra Important with Braces
Braces create additional spaces where food particles and plaque can accumulate around brackets, wires, and along the gumline. Without proper brushing and flossing, this buildup can lead to cavities, gum inflammation, and white spot marks on your teeth, stains that may be permanent.
The effort you put into oral hygiene during braces treatment directly affects the health and appearance of your smile when braces come off. Our team will show you exactly how to keep your teeth clean and your gums healthy throughout your treatment. Pairing good hygiene with smart food choices makes a big difference.
Brushing with Braces
Brush after every meal, not just twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the brush at 45 degrees to the gumline and brush above and below each bracket. Take your time. A thorough brushing with braces takes about three minutes.
- Brush after every meal and snack
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or orthodontic brush
- Angle the brush to clean above and below brackets
- Brush for at least three minutes each time
- Replace your toothbrush every 2–3 months (braces wear them out faster)
Flossing with Braces
Flossing with braces takes more time, but it is essential. Use a floss threader or orthodontic flosser to thread the floss under the archwire and between each pair of teeth. A water flosser (such as a Waterpik) is also an excellent complement to traditional flossing.
- Floss at least once daily
- Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss
- Consider a water flosser for easier cleaning around brackets
- Be gentle and do not snap the floss against the wire
Oral Hygiene Tools We Recommend
Orthodontic Toothbrush
A V-shaped or round-bristled brush designed to clean around brackets and wires more effectively than a standard brush.
Interdental Brushes
Small, cone-shaped brushes that fit between brackets and under wires to remove debris that a regular brush misses.
Water Flosser
A pressurized water stream that cleans around brackets, between teeth, and along the gumline. A great complement to traditional flossing.
Fluoride Rinse
An over-the-counter fluoride mouthwash helps strengthen enamel and protect against cavities during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions About Caring for Your Braces?
Our team is happy to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques at your next visit. Contact our Lake Charles or Sulphur office for more information.