The Importance of Brushing and Flossing During Orthodontic Treatment

Keeping your teeth clean is always important, but maintaining oral health during orthodontic treatment requires extra care. Braces and aligners create spaces where food and plaque can accumulate, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. At Rosenberg Orthodontics, we want to help our patients understand how to maintain oral hygiene with braces so they can achieve a healthy, beautiful smile throughout their treatment. To schedule an orthodontic appointment or learn more about how to maintain oral health with braces, contact our office in Hartford County, CT.

How does orthodontic treatment affect oral hygiene?

Braces and aligners introduce new challenges when it comes to cleaning teeth. Traditional braces and clear ceramic braces, with their brackets and wires, make it harder to remove food particles and plaque, which can lead to tooth decay and gum inflammation. Even those wearing clear aligners, such as Invisalign® aligners, need to practice proper oral hygiene practices, as bacteria can become trapped against the teeth if aligners are not cleaned regularly. Without diligent care, patients may develop cavities, swollen gums, or white spots on their teeth that can last indefinitely.

What is the best way to brush with braces?

One of the most important aspects of caring for your mouth during orthodontic treatment is using the right brushing technique. A soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste should be used to clean the teeth thoroughly. Holding the brush at a 45-degree angle helps to remove plaque from above and below the brackets. Patients should spend at least two minutes brushing, ensuring they clean all surfaces of the teeth, including the gumline and hard-to-reach areas. Many orthodontic patients find that an electric toothbrush is a great tool for achieving more effective cleaning.

How can you floss with braces?

Flossing is an essential part of proper dental hygiene during orthodontic treatment, but it can be tricky with braces. Using a floss threader can help guide the floss between the wires and reach between the teeth. Some patients prefer a water flosser, which uses a gentle stream of water to remove food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas. Flossing at least once a day is crucial to keeping the gums healthy and preventing gum disease.

What happens if you don't brush and floss properly?

Neglecting dental care with braces can lead to several oral health issues. Food and plaque buildup around brackets and wires create an environment where bacteria thrive, increasing the risk of complications such as:

• Cavities that develop around brackets and underwires
• Gum disease, which can cause swelling, redness, and bleeding
• White spots on teeth that remain after braces are removed
• Bad breath due to lingering food particles and bacteria
• Longer orthodontic treatment time if teeth and gums become unhealthy

By maintaining good oral hygiene, you can help prevent these problems and ensure your teeth stay strong and healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.

Know how to maintain oral health

At Rosenberg Orthodontics, we are committed to helping our patients achieve the best possible results. Whether you are an adult or a parent seeking orthodontics for children, our team is here to provide guidance on how to maintain oral hygiene with braces and beyond. By following the right hygiene practices, you can keep your teeth healthy and enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting smile. Contact our office in Hartford County, CT to learn more.