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If you experience any difficulty in accessing any part of this website, please feel free to call us at (209) 577-3792 or email us at drheiner@modestoortho.com and we will work with you to provide the information or service you seek through an alternate communication method that is accessible for you consistent with applicable law (for example, through telephone support).
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial when you have braces, as it keeps your teeth and gums healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. Always brush and floss after every meal, and if you need advice on selecting the right toothbrush, toothpaste, or dental floss, feel free to ask us for recommendations suited to your braces.
Brushing with Braces
Use a soft-bristled, small-headed toothbrush or a powered toothbrush for increased effectiveness. Spend two minutes brushing after every meal. Position the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums, and use small, gentle, circular motions to clean the outside and inside surfaces of your teeth. For chewing surfaces and the insides of your front teeth, use gentle back-and-forth motions. It’s important to focus on areas around your brackets or appliances to remove any trapped food particles.
Flossing with Braces
Flossing is essential to keep your teeth and braces clean, which also helps keep your treatment on schedule. Use a floss threader or special orthodontic floss to navigate the floss behind each wire. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers, and gently slide it up and down between each set of teeth. Ensure you floss below the gum line to remove any trapped plaque or food debris. Continue this process for all teeth. If you’re struggling to remove all food particles, consider using a water flosser, which we can provide information about upon request.
