- There are bacteria (germs) in everyone’s mouth.
- An invisible sticky film forms on all the tooth surfaces containing bacteria.
- The growth of bacteria on the teeth is called plaque.
- The bacteria in plaque are able to damage the teeth and gums by causing tooth decay and gum disease.
- Plaque must be removed every day before it causes damage.
Having braces makes it harder to remove plaque. Because the brackets, bands and archwires create areas that are hard to reach, you must brush using a different technique.
- The brush should be placed against the teeth at an angle.
- Gently push the bristles under the wire and move in small circles, above and below the archwire.
- Brush your braces, teeth and gums and do not forget the chewing surfaces
- Many times the gum tissue is neglected, resulted in swollen and infected gums. Do not forget this important area!
- When you are done, your braces and teeth should be free of any food particles and plaque. Your braces should be clean and shiny and gum tissue should be firm and a light pink color.
- Brushing should take about 5 minutes, but it may take you longer because of the bands and wires.
- Take your time and be thorough in your cleaning – take time to remove all plaque and food particles.
- Brushing should be done within 5 minutes after eating.
- Always brush before bedtime.
- Look under the wires, between the teeth and the gum line – these areas should be free of all food particles and any coating.
- Your braces should look clean and shiny and all areas of your teeth and gum line should be clean.
- A mirror can be used to check all angles in your mouth.
- The best brush to use is a small soft bristle brush.
- The small head allows easier access to difficult areas.
- The soft bristles allow better cleaning without causing damage to the braces, teeth or gums.
- You can use any type of toothpaste – although it is not essential.
- Toothpaste containing fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening the outer layers of enamel against acid.
- For your bedtime brushing, we recommend using Listerine and a Phos-Flur fluoride rinse.
- Do not use too much toothpaste as too much froth will hinder you from seeing that you are brushing correctly.
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