At Gentry Orthodontics, we know that a healthy, confident smile starts with good oral hygiene—especially when you’re wearing braces. While braces do a lot of the heavy lifting to straighten your teeth, they also create a few extra spots where food and plaque like to hide. That’s why brushing with braces takes a little more time and attention. The good news? With the right steps and tools, keeping your braces (and your smile) clean and fresh is simple.
Brushing Basics with Braces
When you brush with braces, the goal is to clean both your teeth and the brackets, wires, and bands. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a rinse – Swish water around your mouth first to loosen any food particles.
- Brush at an angle – Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle above and below your brackets to reach every surface.
- Take your time – Brush for at least two minutes, making sure you cover the front, back, and chewing surfaces of every tooth.
- Don’t forget the gumline – Gently clean along your gums to prevent inflammation.
Tools That Make It Easier
A standard toothbrush can get the job done, but a few extra tools make brushing with braces even more effective:
- Water flosser like Waterpik: There’s nothing I recommend more highly for oral hygiene with braces. It’s like a pressure washer for your teeth.
- Interdental brushes: These tiny brushes are perfect for cleaning between wires and teeth where regular brushes can’t reach.
- Fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse: Extra protection against cavities and white spots around your brackets.
Pro Tips for Success
- Brush after every meal when possible, or at least rinse with water if you can’t get to a toothbrush right away.
- Carry a travel kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and interdental brushes for school, work, or on-the-go.
- Keep up with flossing—a floss threader or water flosser can make this step much easier with braces.
The Bottom Line
Brushing with braces may take a little extra care, but once you get into the routine, it becomes second nature. By sticking to these simple steps and using the right tools, you’ll protect your teeth and gums while your braces do their job—leaving you with the bright, healthy smile you’ve been working toward.
At Gentry Orthodontics, we’re here to support you at every step of your smile journey. Have questions about brushing or need personalized tips? Just ask at your next appointment—we’ll be happy to help!
Schedule your visit with Gentry Orthodontics today. A lifetime of confident smiles starts here!
Gentry Orthodontics • 661 Dunbar Cave Rd • Suite 100 • Clarksville, TN 37043 • (931) 552-5332