Taking care of your teeth with braces means brushing and flossing after every meal is key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums during your orthodontic journey. Not sure which toothbrush, toothpaste, or floss suits your braces best? Just ask us at Align Orthodontics Lexington and we’ll guide you to the best options for your smile and appliance.
Request an AppointmentBrushing with Braces
Brushing thoroughly for two minutes after each meal helps keep your smile bright. Use a soft-bristled, small-headed toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste. If you want extra cleaning power, a powered toothbrush can make a difference. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and move it in small, gentle circles on the outside and inside of your teeth. For chewing surfaces and the insides of front teeth, use short back-and-forth strokes. Don’t forget to focus on areas around your brackets and wires.
Flossing with Braces
Flossing after meals plays a big role in keeping your braces and teeth clean, which helps your treatment stay on schedule. To floss with braces, use a floss threader or special orthodontic floss to get the floss behind each wire. Wrap the floss around your pointer fingers with a few inches of tight floss in between. Gently slide it between your teeth, moving it back and forth. Be sure to clean under the gumline to remove plaque and food debris. Keep going until you’ve flossed every tooth. If floss alone isn’t enough, ask us about a water flosser—it can be a game changer!