PATIENT GUIDE
Brackets and wires create additional places for food and plaque to collect. Thorough daily cleaning helps protect the teeth and gums throughout orthodontic treatment.
VIDEO DEMONSTRATION — TO BE ADDED
A clinician-recorded brushing demonstration will be added here.
Video demonstration — to be added
What You Need
A soft manual or electric toothbrush, age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste, a mirror, and an interdental brush. An orthodontic V-shaped toothbrush is an option; a soft ordinary toothbrush can also be used effectively.
Step-by-Step Brushing
1. Brush twice daily
Brush at least twice daily, especially before bed. Spend at least two minutes, allowing extra time to clean around all brackets.
2. Rinse away loose food
When brushing after a meal is impractical, rinse with water and clean properly when you can.
3. Clean gently at the gumline
Use gentle pressure and small, controlled movements along the gumline.
4. Brush above and below brackets
Angle the bristles toward the upper and lower edges of each bracket to clean both sides. Adapt the direction for upper and lower teeth.
5. Clean every tooth surface
Clean bracket faces, back teeth and bands, inner tooth surfaces, and chewing surfaces.
6. Guide an electric brush slowly
With an electric brush, guide the head slowly from tooth to tooth instead of scrubbing forcefully.
7. Clean beneath the wire
Use an appropriately sized interdental brush to clean accessible areas beneath the wire.
8. Spit out toothpaste
Avoid rinsing immediately with water unless your dental professional directs otherwise.
9. Check in a mirror
Check around brackets and the gumline in a mirror for remaining food or plaque.
Common Mistakes
Cleaning only the front of the brackets
Missing the gumline or back teeth
Pressing too hard
Assuming an electric toothbrush cleans without careful positioning
When to Seek Advice
Persistent bleeding, swelling, painful gums, or new chalky white marks need assessment by your dental team.
Continue regular dental examinations and professional cleaning during orthodontic treatment.