Maintaining a healthy smile takes a little extra care when you have braces, but it’s well worth the effort. If you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment in Davidson, NC, learning how to properly brush your teeth with braces is key to keeping your smile healthy and your treatment on track.
At Zammitti & Gidaly Orthodontics, we know that every patient’s journey is unique. That’s why we’re here to walk you through the best techniques for brushing with braces, along with some expert tips to keep your smile sparkling throughout treatment.
Why Proper Brushing Matters with Braces
Braces create small spaces where food particles and plaque can hide, making it easier for cavities, gum disease, and decalcification (white spots on your teeth) to develop if you’re not careful. Good oral hygiene helps:
- Prevent plaque buildup and bad breath
- Protect your tooth enamel from damage
- Keep your treatment timeline on track
- Support your overall health
Step-by-Step: How to Brush Your Teeth with Braces
Whether you’re new to braces or just looking to fine-tune your routine, here’s how to brush effectively:
1. Rinse First
Start by rinsing your mouth with water to loosen any food particles stuck around your brackets or wires. This simple step makes brushing more effective.
2. Use the Right Toothbrush
A soft-bristled toothbrush or electric toothbrush is best. Look for a brush with a smaller head to reach around brackets more easily. You may also want to keep an interdental brush (also called a proxy brush) on hand to clean around the brackets and under the wires.
3. Brush at an Angle
Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to clean around the brackets. Brush:
- Above the brackets, angling down toward the gum line
- Below the brackets, angling up
- Directly on the brackets, using gentle, circular motions
Don’t rush—spend at least 2 minutes brushing, and make sure to clean every surface of each tooth.
4. Don’t Skip the Gum Line
Brushing your gum line is just as important as brushing your teeth. Gently brush in small circles along the gum line to prevent inflammation and gingivitis.
5. Rinse Again & Check Your Work
After brushing, rinse with water or a fluoride mouthwash. Use a mirror to double-check for any spots you may have missed, especially behind the molars or around your brackets.
Extra Tips for Brushing with Braces
- Brush after every meal to keep your braces and teeth clean throughout the day.
- Floss daily, using floss threaders or orthodontic flossers to get between your teeth.
- Avoid sticky, hard, or sugary foods that can damage your braces or increase plaque buildup.
- Keep your dental kit with you—toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and proxy brush—especially if you’re on the go in Davidson!
Davidson Smiles Start Here
Living in Davidson, NC and need help keeping your braces clean? You’re not alone—and you’re in good hands with the team at Zammitti & Gidaly Orthodontics. We’re committed to helping you every step of the way, from your first consultation to your final reveal.
If you have questions about brushing with braces or want personalized tips, give us a call or stop by our Davidson office. A healthier, straighter smile starts with the right habits—and we’re here to help you build them.