We understand that you will have to adjust to your new braces. It is imperative to learn to brush and floss correctly so that you can maintain maximum oral health during and after treatment!
Dr. Lee and her team will help you through the adjustment period and get you comfortable with your new braces. Whether you choose traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners, or another form of braces, we will equip you with the skills you need to take good care of them at home.
General Rules for Home Care
Here is some general advice for maintaining your braces.
Brushing
Brush after every meal and snack! Brush your teeth frequently with a gentle toothbrush and toothpaste. If you are wearing metal braces, brush the brackets and wires along with your teeth.
For Invisalign clear aligners, remove your aligners for both eating and brushing your teeth. Brush both your teeth and aligners before replacing your Invisalign clear aligners.
Flossing
Floss every day! With metal braces, you may need floss threaders or floss made for braces to remove all of the debris more easily. Thread your floss beyond the wire and floss by gently rubbing against the tooth surface up and underneath the gum surface. Then once one side is finished, move the floss over the adjacent tooth and repeat the process.
Dr. Lee can provide product recommendations and techniques to make flossing easier. With Invisalign clear braces, remove your aligners and floss your teeth normally.
Step-by-Step Brushing Techniques
Step One: Put a pea-sized amount of toothpaste onto your toothbrush.
Step Two: Use circular brushing motions around the gumline for about 10 seconds on each individual tooth. Remember to give each tooth plenty of attention.
Step Three: Brush the lower teeth up and the upper teeth down.
Step Four: Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth.
Step-by-Step Flossing Techniques
Step One: Carefully pull waxed floss or specialized braces floss between the wires and brackets.
Step Two: Floss carefully around the braces.
Step Three: Floss carefully around the gum area.
Step Four: Floss around each tooth, scraping the sides to remove plaque missed by brushing.
How Do I Floss With Braces?
Results
Proper Oral Hygiene
Improper Brushing and Flossing
Keep Your Smile Beautiful and Shining During Your Orthodontic Treatment
You will see the best results if you brush and floss diligently. To learn more, contact us at Burlingame Smile Studio today.
