Now that your braces are in place, it is very important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen throughout the length of your treatment. Braces, wires, bands and retainers can all trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or floss away plaque. Careful brushing and flossing, preferably after every meal and snack, is the best way to prevent plaque build-up, tooth decay and gum disease.
Brushing while Wearing Braces
Especially during orthodontic treatment, brush your teeth four times daily to avoid the accumulation of food particles in your teeth and braces:
- In the morning after breakfast
- After lunch or right after school
- After dinner
- At bedtime
Flossing while Wearing Braces
Flossing takes more time and patience when you are wearing braces, but it is important to floss your teeth every day. We recommend flossing at night to make sure your teeth are clean before you go to bed.
Use a reusable floss threader to floss under your archwire. Dr's Ruud, Flores-Mir and staff will provide you with flossing instructions.
Rinsing with an Antibacterial Mouthwash
To reduce inflammation to your gums and cheeks and to prevent tooth decay; use a fluoride antibacterial mouth rinse after brushing and flossing prior to bedtime.
Using an Interdental Toothbrush
An interdental (between the teeth) toothbrush is used to clean underneath and around your archwires and braces. Please use the interdental toothbrush gently to avoid damaging your wires.
Cleaning Your Removable Appliance
Brush your removable appliance every day as a part of your regular brushing and flossing schedule. Dissolve a denture-cleaning tablet in a glass of tap water at room temperature, and soak your appliance once a week.
Food For Orthodontic Thought
Braces, wires, bands and retainers can all trap food particles and harbour sugars and plaque. We will provide you with a "No-No" list to post on your refrigerator door. We will also give you a list of the most common drinks consumed and amount of sugars contained.