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Brushing and Flossing

Keep Your Smile Sparkling with Braces!

Having braces means your teeth and gums need a little extra love—but don't worry, it's easy to keep them healthy and happy! Brushing and flossing after every meal is key to a bright, healthy smile and keeping your treatment on track. Need help picking out the perfect toothbrush, toothpaste, or floss for your braces? Just ask us—we're happy to guide you to the best products for your teeth and your appliances.

Brushing with Braces

  • Brush your teeth for two minutes after every meal using a soft-bristled, small-headed toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
  • An electric toothbrush can make brushing even easier and more effective.
  • Use small, gentle, circular motions on the outside and inside surfaces of your teeth, keeping the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line.
  • For chewing surfaces and the inside of your front teeth, use short, gentle, back-and-forth motions.
  • Take extra care around your brackets and wires—that's where food loves to hide!

brushing with braces

Flossing with Braces

Flossing after meals helps keep your teeth clean and your braces working efficiently. Here's how:

  • Use a special orthodontic floss or a floss threader to guide floss behind each wire.
  • Wrap the ends around your pointer fingers, leaving a few inches of taut floss.
  • Gently slide the floss between your teeth in a back-and-forth motion, cleaning beneath the gum line and along each tooth.
  • Repeat for every tooth—don't skip any spots!

If regular flossing is too tricky, ask us about the benefits of using a water flosser—it can make cleaning around braces a breeze!

flossing with braces

Extra Tips for a Healthy Smile

  • Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
  • Avoid sticky and sugary foods that can increase plaque and make cleaning harder.
  • Rinse with an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash to wash away bacteria and keep enamel strong.
  • Keep up with regular dental cleanings—your dentist and orthodontist work together to keep your smile healthy.

With a little care and these tips, your braces journey will lead to a beautiful, sparkling smile that lasts a lifetime!