If you recently have gotten braces, or are going to soon, congratulations on taking a step toward a healthier smile. You may be concerned, however, with how you will keep your teeth clean while you have them. After all, you want your newly straightened smile to shine when the braces come off! The following guide is designed to explain some of the best ways to brush and floss while wearing these devices.
How to Brush
You will still want to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes while your braces are on. Mentally divide your mouth into four quadrants and aim for spending 30 seconds in each. When it comes to brushing, follow these steps:
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. This is a great way to help loosen any food particles that have become caught in your brackets and wires.
- Gently brush the front of your teeth, holding your brush at a 45-degree angle. Start at the gum line, then hit both above and below the bracket. Take your time and ensure you get every tooth thoroughly.
- Repeat step two, only focusing on the back of the teeth this time.
- Brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
- Rinse again and examine your teeth in the mirror to ensure there are no remaining food particles.
If you are struggling to clean the areas near the brackets and wires, look into a specialized brush. Our orthodontist can help you and make recommendations.
How to Floss
It is also very important to floss your teeth a minimum of once a day. This is admittedly trickier with braces, but far from impossible. You can invest in a specialized tool called a floss threader. This will help you get the floss in between your teeth underneath the main archwire. Be sure to go gently so that the floss does not snap.
If you are concerned about your child flossing properly with braces, it is a good idea to do it for them. Plaque and bacteria can easily get caught in between the teeth and braces, leading to further dental concerns down the line.
Learn More
Regular checkups are as important as brushing and flossing when it comes to braces. If you are overdue for a visit or have further questions, get in touch with Central Texas Orthodontics and schedule a time to come see us. We would be more than happy to provide you with all of the necessary information. Contact us today to book your appointment at our office in Austin, TX.
Excellent service and treatment!
by Lisa
Category: orthodontistWe have been seeing Dr. St. Loius at Central Texas Orthodontics for a couple kids now over several years. Everytime we walk in for an appointment, we are greeted warmly and promptly taken back. The office is easy to get to and always runs on time, we have never had to wait to be seen, which is remarkable for a medical/dental office! The payment options were also fair and easy to understand. And the follow up, even after those braces come off, has been stellar! Retainers get lost or chewed up sometimes (ugg!), but a quick text into the office and we were able to drop off the original molds and have new ones made very quickly. Everyone who works at this office truly cares, and you can tell they all enjoy where they work, which is really wonderful to see. I cannot speak highly enough of this office, the staff, the care, and ESPECIALLY the after care and protecting our investment.
Austin’s Best Orthodontics!
by Robin Petmecky
Category: orthodontistDr. St. Louis and his staff are exceptional! Their professional, friendly and caring manner stand out every time I have an appointment. They are always very positive during my visits and make me feel like I’m part of their family. I never have to wait to be seen and I’m usually out in a minimal amount of time. I had my last orthodontic visit recently and they invited me to stop in anytime, just to say hello. I highly recommend Central Texas Orthodontics to anyone needing their services. They are truly the BEST!
FANTASTIC GROUP!
by Melissa Moore Yacono
Category: orthodontistI love this office and the lovely, happy, warm staff!! Every one of the staff is kind and friendly! The vibe of the office is uplifting, relaxing, and Austin-y. Love it. The plants make it pleasant. Everything is so clean! What a refreshing visit and thank you so much for the stellar customer service.
Simply the Best!
by Christine Laux
Category: orthodontistDr. B. and his team are fantastic: Everyone just truly cares! They are knowledgeable and super helpful, always happy to consult. I recommend CTO not only for children and teens, but for adults as well! My two teenage daughters got their braces and I got my Invisalign. Dr. B. took his time to go over all our treatment plans and make adjustments. The communication is seamless and very responsive. All team members are wonderful - my special shoutout goes to Beatrice and Christen though: Those two lovely ladies go above and beyond with everything they do! Thanks to y’alls fabulous care our teeth are all straight now!
Awesome Experience
by Norma Constancio
Category: orthodontistDr. St. Louis and his staff were wonderful! From their friendly staff, nice office environment and Dr. St. Louis always willing to answer my questions. I would 100% recommend Central Texas Orthodontics to anyone.
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