Oral Hygiene with Braces

Guide to Oral Hygiene with Braces for Our Manassas, VA Area Patients

An important fact about life with braces is that oral care generally becomes more difficult. You must pay particular attention to daily brushing and flossing. Braces provide plenty of places for food particles to hide. If you are not diligent in your at-home oral hygiene, you can end up suffering from tooth decay and gum disease. In turn, these problems can prolong your orthodontic treatment.

Brush after every meal and floss at least once a day. You should also seriously consider using an antiseptic mouthwash as this liquid can help clean out all the nooks and crannies of your mouth.

Begin your oral care by removing any elastics (rubber bands). Then thoroughly brush your braces from all angles. Next, brush each individual tooth from every angle, taking care not to damage your braces.

When you floss, you may find a special orthodontic flosser to be easier to use than traditional dental floss. Finally, follow the directions on your mouthwash. Don’t forget to replace your elastics. If it is time for bed, be sure not to eat or drink anything further after you brush your teeth.

Please contact us at (703) 383-0090 for questions about oral care or to set up outstanding orthodontic treatment.