At first, effectively removing plaque from your teeth and along the gum line may seem difficult with braces. But keep at it - with practice it becomes easier! Following these tips will also help:
- First, take off any removable parts like elastic bands and headgear.
- Place your brush at an angle of about 45 degrees or flatten against the tooth and gum and apply gentle pressure as you brush with a gentle round and round motion.
- Use the same brushing motion on the inner and outer surface of all teeth.
- Don't forget to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth - and make sure you reach the back teeth too.
- Finish by cleaning around your braces, brushing first from the top and then from the bottom. Brush gently and take care not to bend or break any of the brackets or wires.
- Use your interdental (triangle) brush to remove plaque from under the wire and from bracket to bracket.
REMEMBER:
- Electric brushes need to be held still so the bristles can contact and clean the surface (5 seconds in each area per tooth)
- Manual brushes need to be moved (10 circular motions on the tooth and gum margin)