Keeping your teeth clean is one of the most important things you can do while wearing braces.
Brackets and wires give plaque and food more places to hide, so a good daily routine helps protect your teeth and keeps your treatment on track. The good news is that with the right tools and a little extra time, looking after your oral hygiene during braces treatment becomes second nature.
How to brush with braces
When your braces are first fitted, our team will show you the correct brushing technique. We recommend an end-tufted brush to clean under the wire and around the brackets, tubes, and gums, along with a soft orthodontic brush or electric toothbrush, and a small amount of toothpaste for general cleaning.
Place the bristles where your gum and teeth meet, then use a gentle circular motion around the gum line, spending around ten seconds on each tooth.
Cleaning between your teeth
Brushing is only part of the picture. Cleaning between your teeth still matters, and floss threaders or interdental brushes make it much easier to reach the spaces a normal brush misses.
If you find flossing difficult, a waterflosser is a good, modern alternative. A fluoride mouthwash or tooth mousse can also help guard against decay during treatment, and both are worth asking us about at your next visit.
Habits that protect your teeth
A few simple habits go a long way:
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Brush after meals where you can, or rinse with water if brushing is not possible.
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Keep a small travel kit with a brush and interdental brushes for cleaning on the go.
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Watch for sticky or hard foods that get caught in your braces and raise the risk of decay.
Good hygiene habits matter whichever treatment you choose. The different types of braces each call for a slightly different cleaning routine. Clear aligners (Invisalign®) are the easiest to keep clean, as they can be removed for brushing and flossing.
Additional brushes are available to purchase at our reception, and you are always welcome to ask us for further cleaning instructions. We are happy to help you keep your smile healthy at every stage of treatment.
Four habits that protect your braces
Soft food after appointments
Pasta, soup, eggs, yoghurt and smoothies for the first few days.
Cut food into small pieces
Apples, carrots and crusty bread should be sliced rather than bitten into.
Chew gently on your back teeth
Front teeth and brackets take the most force when you bite directly.
Avoid sticky and hard food
Toffee, chewing gum, nuts, ice and hard lollies are the usual causes of breakages.
