Orthodontics improves the health and appearance of your smile, but while treatment lasts cleaning becomes more demanding. Braces and wires create nooks where plaque builds up easily.
Why you need to take extra care
It’s very easy for food debris and plaque to build up around braces. If they aren’t cleaned properly, the dreaded white spots (decalcification), decay and gingivitis appear. Good hygiene during orthodontic treatment stops you finishing with teeth that are straight but damaged.
Tools that help you
Beyond your usual toothbrush, it’s worth adding:
- Interproximal brush. Cleans between the bracket and the gum, where a normal brush can’t reach.
- Dental floss with a threader or superfloss. Lets you pass the floss under the wire.
- Water flosser. The jet of pressurised water washes debris out of the tricky areas.
- V-shaped brush. Designed to fit the surface of the braces.
Dudas frecuentes sobre orthodontics
How often should I brush with braces?
After every meal, without exception. Food trapped in the braces makes it all the more important not to skip a single brushing.
Written by Dra. Elena Zaplana Gil Director
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