How do you clean your teeth with braces?

Cleaning teeth with braces takes more effort, but it is very manageable with the right routine. Braces create extra places for plaque and food to collect, including around brackets, under wires, between teeth, and along the gumline. If plaque is not removed properly, it can lead to swollen gums, bad breath, cavities, and permanent white marks on the teeth.

A strong braces-cleaning routine starts with brushing carefully. Patients should brush around every bracket, above and below the wire, and along the gumline. The toothbrush should be angled in different directions to reach the edges of the brackets and the spaces where plaque collects.

Fluoride toothpaste is important because fluoride helps strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of cavities. Brushing should be thorough, not rushed. After brushing, the braces should look clean and shiny, not fuzzy or coated.

Flossing is also important, even though it takes more time with braces. Floss threaders, orthodontic flossers, or water flossers can help clean between the teeth. Interdental brushes, also called proxy brushes, are useful for cleaning under wires and around brackets.

Patients with braces should also be careful with sugary snacks and drinks. Frequent exposure to sugar increases the risk of cavities and white spots, especially if plaque is sitting around the brackets.

Regular visits to the family dentist and hygienist remain important during orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic appointments do not replace dental cleanings. Many patients benefit from more frequent hygiene visits while in braces.

At Orthodontics on Queen in The Beaches, Toronto, oral hygiene is considered a key part of successful orthodontic treatment. The goal is not only to create a straighter smile, but to keep the teeth healthy throughout the process.

A beautiful orthodontic result should be clean, healthy, and cavity-free.