15 Jul How to Maintain Your Metal or Ceramic Braces?

Metal and ceramic braces are highly effective appliances that can correct a variety of orthodontic issues and help your orthodontist provide you with a healthy and beautiful smile. However, your braces can only work effectively if you take proper care of them. At Taunton Orthodontics, we take great care to ensure our patients understand how to care for their braces by following proper dental hygiene instructions.

Here are some tips to keep in mind if you are wearing metal or ceramic braces or any fixed (glued in) orthodontic appliance:

Use the Right Brushing Technique

It is essential to brush regularly and use the proper technique while doing so. Use a flexible head brush to reach all corners of your mouth. Brush near the gum line at a 45° angle first. You can then point the bristles downward to brush the top of the braces and then flip up to brush the bottom of the braces. This technique ensures all areas around the braces are clean and can be used with either a manual or an electric toothbrush.

Proxabrush

Use a proxabrush or similar small cylindrical brush to go between the brackets and under the wire for those spots that might be difficult to reach with a regular toothbrush.

Floss Every Day

Flossing can be tricky when you have braces on but is still extremely important to maintain excellent overall oral hygiene. The use of floss threaders can be helpful to help guide the floss under the wire.
A Waterpik can also be a helpful aide to remove interdental debris and plaque if flossing is too great of a challenge.

If you would like to learn more about maintaining proper hygiene with braces, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Taunton Orthodontics in Whitby. You can use our contact us form or call/text us (905) 620-0056.

– The Taunton Orthodontics Team