Brushing

When brushing, always use a soft-bristled brush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brush using small circular motions - this will help the toothbrush reach food particles under the gum line. Make sure you hold the brush at a 45 degree angle, and move the brush slowly and thoroughly, taking care to cover all areas between braces, between teeth, and the surface of each tooth. Proper brushing should take several minutes. The direction you brush maximizes your efforts. On the upper and lower teeth brush upwards and downwards towards the brackets to maximize the removal of food particles. Brush the front, back, and chewing surface of every tooth. Just before you rinse, brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth.

During orthodontic treatment, brush your teeth four times daily to avoid accumulation of food particles in your braces and teeth.

After breakfast
After lunch (or immediately after school)
After dinner
Before bedtime

You will need to replace your toothbrush more often due to wear and tear from your braces and appliances. As soon as the bristles start to fray or wear down, replace your toothbrush with a new one. Be careful and methodical when brushing - it may be difficult to reach areas under the archwire. Take care not to swallow any toothpaste and rinse your mouth out thoroughly when you finish. You should floss, cleanse with an mouthwash, and use fluoride rinse as part of your oral hygiene regimen.

Flossing

Flossing when wearing braces takes patience and dedication, but it is critical to floss your teeth every day. The use of a floss threader will aid in your performance of this necessary procedure. Remove a small length of floss from the dispenser and insert it through the threader. Place the floss under the archwire and wrap it around the side of one tooth in the form of the letter "C". Gently move the floss up and down making sure it goes beneath the gum line. Repeat this on the side of the adjacent tooth and remove the floss. Continue around both arches until you have cleaned the side of all your teeth.