How to Brush Teeth with Braces
Braces can do wonders for your smile, but they also demand a little more attention when it comes to your daily oral hygiene routine. With brackets, wires, and bands in the way, brushing becomes a bit more strategic. But trust us, keeping your teeth clean during orthodontic treatment is absolutely worth the effort. Brushing with braces in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME can be tricky, but it doesn't have to be.
At Gentle Dental, we want to help you protect your investment. Straight teeth are great, but only if they stay strong, cavity-free, and healthy during the process.
Why Brushing Matters Even More With Braces
Here’s the thing: Braces create extra surfaces for food particles and plaque to cling to. If you don’t remove that buildup consistently, it can lead to:
- Stained or discolored enamel
- Decalcification (permanent white spots)
- Cavities between brackets
- Gum inflammation or swelling
- Bad breath
In other words, skipping a proper brushing routine can compromise your results before the brackets even come off.
How To Brush Your Teeth With Braces
You don’t need fancy tools to keep your teeth clean—just a little extra time and attention. Here’s how to make brushing effective while you’re wearing braces:
Use The Right Toothbrush
Start with a soft-bristled manual or electric toothbrush. Some people prefer an orthodontic brush with a V-shaped trim to better clean around brackets. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s gentle but thorough.Brush After Every Meal
Braces trap food easily, so brushing two times a day may not be enough. We recommend brushing after every meal and snack if possible, or at least rinsing with water when you're on the go.Angle Your Brush
Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to clean above and below the brackets. Spend time cleaning along the gumline, on the chewing surfaces, and behind the teeth. Use small, circular motions and be thorough—but don’t scrub too hard.Take Your Time
A good rule of thumb? Brush for at least two full minutes—but when you’re wearing braces, even a little longer isn’t a bad idea.Don’t Forget Your Tongue
Your tongue can also harbor bacteria, so give it a quick brush to help keep your breath fresh and your mouth clean.
Toothpaste Tips While Wearing Braces
Stick with fluoride toothpaste to help protect your enamel and fight off cavities. If you're especially prone to sensitivity or plaque buildup, we can recommend a specialty toothpaste to support your brushing routine during orthodontic treatment.
Watch Out For Problem Areas
Certain parts of your mouth become trickier to clean when you’re in braces. Pay close attention to:
- The gumline
- The space between wires and teeth
- Areas around molar bands
- Behind the back molars
These are spots where food tends to hide—and where plaque loves to hang out.
When To Replace Your Toothbrush
Braces can be tough on your toothbrush. The bristles wear down faster from brushing over wires and brackets, so plan to replace your toothbrush or brush head every 3 months—or sooner if the bristles start to fray.
Keep Your Smile Strong Throughout Your Orthodontic Journey
Braces are a long-term investment, and your brushing habits will make or break your final results. A little extra time spent in front of the mirror now means a healthier, brighter smile when the brackets come off.
If you’re unsure about your brushing technique—or want product recommendations tailored to your braces—reach out to us at Gentle Dental. We’re here to guide you every step of the way and help you maintain excellent oral health, both during and after orthodontic treatment in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME.
