Click here to view an animated feature explaining good Oral Hygiene.
Proper oral hygiene is essential in protecting your teeth from permanent stains, cavities and gum disease which are caused by plaque. Plaque must be removed every day!
Orthodontic appliances not only accumulate plaque but also make it more difficult to remove, therefore the brushing technique is different.
Tooth brushing:
Always use a soft toothbrush.
Place bristles against the teeth at an angle.
Push the bristles under the wires and between the teeth.
Vibrate the brush and move it in small circles on each area of the tooth above & below the archwire.
Brush each tooth for 10 seconds.
Always brush within 10 minutes after eating and always before bed.
Use a fluoride mouth rinse once a day.
When brushing is through, the braces should be shiny, gum margins distinct, and gum tissue should be firm and light pink.
Flossing
Flossing with braces is more important and more difficult that flossing without braces. Only floss can remove plaque between teeth.
Use waxed floss or tape about 12 inches in conjunction with floss threaded.
Floss must be threaded under the archwire before it is passed between the teeth.
Curve the floss in a "C-shape" in the contour of each tooth and gently floss up and down.
