Cleaning with Braces
Posted by Orthodontist Cork on Wednesday 6 May 2015

Toothbrushes

Clean teeth and healthy gums are vital during treatment. You should brush your teeth a minimum of three times a day for about five minutes.

We recommend using a small soft headed toothbrush. We will go over various toothbrushing techniques with you at the clinic. Then, use the interspace toothbrush under the wire, between brackets and wires to make sure no food or plaque is left on the braces or teeth, which could cause permanent damage.

Disclosing tablets

Disclosing tablets are helpful as they indicate where food or plaque is gathering by staining them red. Brush your teeth until all the red stains are removed.

Fluoride mouthwashes

Fluoride mouthwash helps to repair teeth, preventing white marks appearing on the teeth. It should be used once a day, just before going to bed.

Wax

If the brace is rubbing against the inside of your lips or cheeks, you may need to apply wax from time to time to prevent mouth ulcers from occurring. The will act as a cushion between your lips and the braces, and stops them rubbing.