Cleaning Fixed Braces
How to keep your braces clean:
Braces can cause plaque and food debris to get trapped around the teeth, so it is important that when braces are fitted, your oral hygiene is very good. Here are some common patient questions and answers from our team at Dental Smiles to help you protect your teeth when you have braces.
How often should I clean my teeth?
It is recommended to brush your teeth 3 times a day, as braces can trap food and plaque.
What can I use to clean around my braces?
To clean around your brackets, it is recommended to use a single tufted brush as this is much smaller than a regular toothbrush and can access more areas.
Also using TePe brushes (usually yellow and green) can help clean between the bracket and tooth.
Should I use mouthwash?
Using a mouthwash after meals is a good idea when you have braces. It removes any remaining food debris until the next time you brush your teeth.
What are the risks of not cleaning teeth and braces properly?
If teeth cleaning isn’t kept at a high standard whilst you have braces, you are at risk of developing decay, gum disease, bad breath and permanent damage to your enamel.
Tooth Decay: Plaque and sugar cause decay so if the teeth aren’t cleaned properly everyday, it can be a breeding ground for bacteria and decay to develop.
Gum disease: Remaining plaque also inflames the gums which can make them swollen and bleed
Damage to enamel: white spots can appear on the teeth if plaque has been there too long, this will be more visible once braces are removed so it is important that they are brushed properly every day!
Bad breath: Braces can trap food and bacteria. If this isn’t removed, it can cause bad breath
Gum Recession: If plaque isn't removed and the inflammation isn’t treated, it can cause the gum tissue to recede, exposing the tooth roots.
Pausing treatment: If the orthodontist deems that the oral hygiene isn't good enough, they make take off the braces and stop treatment until this improves.
Video: How to Brush Properly with Braces, a Dentist's Guide
This video shows the process you can use to thoroughly clean your teeth braces with braces on. For more Dental Smiles videos, visit our TikTok account.
If you’re looking for a dentist near you in Essex, our Chelmsford dentists at Dental Smiles Chelmsford can help. Contact us on info@dentalsmileschelmsford.co.uk or 01245 251198
