Oral Hygiene

Brushing 4 times a day and flossing daily is a must and will help prevent problems during orthodontic treatment. Plaque accumulates rapidly around the brackets/appliance. Plaque and sugar together make acid, which causes decalcification (white spots) and cavities. Reduce your intake of acidic and sugar containing food/drinks to decrease the occurrence of cavities. 

Toothbrush

Using a soft bristle toothbrush; start brushing your teeth by moving the brush left and right over the teeth and brackets. It will remove food particles and plaque. Continue to brush by angling your toothbrush above and below the bracket as well. Also angle your toothbrush 45 degrees towards your gums and gently massage. This massaging is very important as it promotes healthy gums, which is vital while you are wearing braces.

Proxy Brush

It is also important to use a proxy brush to clean in between your braces once a day. Insert the brush underneath your wire to dislodge food and plaque.

Flossing

Floss daily using a floss threader. Insert the flossthreader underneath your wire between the brackets and continue to floss, using an up and down motion.

                       

Wax

Wax is helpful if one or more brackets are causing an irritation inside your mouth. Simply take a piece of wax and roll it between your fingers to warm it up and create a smooth shape. Then place it directly on your bracket, creating a smooth surface. Change the wax each time you brush your teeth.