Making Your Teeth Sparkle!
Keeping your teeth and appliances clean is a must. Brackets, wires and bands can trap food. They also provide places for plaque to build up. The best way to prevent problems is to brush after every meal and snack.
Steps for Good Brushing
Always use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush around and under braces, not just over them. After rinsing, check your braces and all of your teeth. If you still see food, brush and rinse again. For best results, follow these steps:
- Brush the outside of your teeth. Use a circular motion.
- Brush the inside of your teeth. Use back-and-fort strokes. Brush gums at the gumline using a circular motion.
- Brush the tops of your teeth with a back-and-forth motion. Brush your tongue too. Then rinse.
- Floss your teeth at least once a day to prevent plaque build up. A toothbrush can’t clean between your teeth and gums. Flossing can be tricky with braces, but with practice and a floss threader, you will get the hang of it.
- After brushing and flossing, look closely at your teeth. If they sparkle, you did a great job. If they are milky and dull take your toothbrush, no toothpaste, and brush again. Slow circular motions. Rinse and inspect again.
- Special products and devices can help keep teeth and braces clean. A rotary ultrasonic toothbrush may make brushing easier. An oral irrigator (like a water pik) lets you aim a thin stream of water at hard-to-reach places.
Your effort is key to a beautiful smile. After all, no one else can wear your braces for you. So do your part. Brush and floss every day. In the end, you will be smiling proud, knowing you helped to set your teeth straight.
Download this Hygiene Certificate to be signed by your dentist to earn 10 Harwell Bucks!
