If you have orthodontics, the only way to prevent plaque build up is by cleaning your teeth after every meal and snack. At Clear Advantage Dental & Orthodontic Clinic, we want you to have a beautiful healthy smile. In order for us to achieve this goal, good hygiene on your part is vital.

Here are some tips to great dental hygiene while undergoing orthodontic treatment:

1. Brush, and not just your teeth

Your teeth aren’t the only areas that accumulate bacteria. After brushing your teeth in a soft, circular motion, gently brush your gums, tongue and sides of your mouth. Brush after every meal or snack. 

2. Brush with fluoride toothpaste

Using fluoride toothpaste helps prevent tooth decay. It makes your teeth more resistant to acid.

3. Use a soft-bristled brush

Your gums are delicate, so make sure you use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove particles. 

4. Floss around your teeth

Floss daily to remove trapped food and particles. Don’t forget to floss the areas behind your back teeth. Use a scooping motion to remove the food particles. For those with braces, use a floss threader to get to your teeth behind the braces wire.

5. Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash

Rinse your mouth after eating with mouthwash to kill any bacteria. Try to avoid sugary drinks altogether. If you must, swish with water or brush after your drinking a sugary drink.

6. Clean teeth with a proxabrush

With braces, there are more areas for bacteria to grow. Use a proxabrush to clean between the brackets.

7. Get regular check-ups

See your dentist throughout your treatment. Although most patients go for a regular checkup twice a year, some may require more frequent professional cleaning. This of course depends on how well your maintain your dental hygiene!