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The Right Way to Brush with Braces: Tips for Kids and Teens

The Right Way to Brush with Braces: Tips for Kids and Teens

Reviewed by: Dr. Paul Rubin, DDS

For kids and teens, keeping up with proper oral hygiene can be tough, and wearing braces makes it even more important to get it right.

Braces create tricky spaces where food particles and plaque can hide, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth discoloration.

In this blog, you will learn how to help your child brush effectively with braces, the tools they need, and habits to avoid for a healthy smile.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

To brush teeth with braces effectively, use a soft-bristled or orthodontic toothbrush angled at 45 degrees to clean around brackets and wires. Brush for two full minutes and use fluoride toothpaste. Clean between brackets with an interdental brush or water flosser, and finish with a fluoride mouth rinse for extra protection against plaque and tooth decay.

Why Proper Brushing Matters with Braces

Braces create extra surfaces where food particles and plaque can hide. 

Not brushing teeth with braces properly can cause:

  • Tooth decay: Plaque buildup on the tooth surface can weaken tooth enamel and lead to cavities.
  • Gum disease: Unremoved plaque can irritate the gums, causing inflammation and periodontal disease.
  • White spots: Decalcification on teeth, or white scars, can develop when plaque stays too long on teeth.
  • Bad breath: Food debris and bacteria left behind can cause foul odors and unpleasant smells.

Read this blog to learn more dental tips: Teen Oral Health 101: Tips for a Healthy, Happy Smile

How to Brush Teeth with Braces

Follow these steps to maintain excellent oral hygiene with braces:

  1. Use the right toothbrush: Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush or an orthodontic toothbrush with end-rounded bristles to clean around brackets effectively. Electric toothbrushes can provide extra scrubbing power.
  2. Brush thoroughly: Angle the toothbrush at 45 degrees to clean above, below, and around each bracket. Cover every tooth surface carefully.
  3. Brush for two minutes: Take your time to ensure a detailed cleaning. Focus on both teeth and braces.
  4. Do not forget the extras: Use a tongue scraper and brush your tongue and use your toothbrush to brush the roof of your mouth to keep your breath fresh.
  5. Use fluoride toothpaste: This strengthens tooth enamel and protects against tooth decay.
  6. Rinse well: Finish with an antiseptic mouth rinse or fluoride mouthwash for an extra layer of protection.

Not a fan of fluoride? Learn about another effective option: Nano-Hydroxyapatite vs. Fluoride: Which Toothpaste Is Better for Your Teeth?

Tools to Make Brushing Easier with Braces

Using the right tools makes all the difference for people with braces.

  • Interdental brush: Perfect for cleaning between brackets and wires where a manual toothbrush cannot reach.
  • Water flosser: A stream of water helps remove bits of food and plaque around braces.
  • Dental floss: Waxed floss or a floss threader helps clean between teeth with braces.
  • Travel toothbrush: Keep a travel toothbrush on hand for quick brushing after meals.
  • Antibacterial mouthwash: Fights bacteria and helps control bad breath management.

Habits to Avoid with Braces

Avoid these habits to protect your teeth with braces:

  • Skipping brushing: Poor brushing can lead to plaque buildup, tooth discoloration, and gum disease.
  • Rushing the process: A cursory brushing routine misses key areas around brackets and wires.
  • Sugary foods: Sugary snacks can cause plaque around braces, leading to tooth decay.
  • Cold or hard foods: These can damage brackets and wires, making cleaning harder.
  • Not cleaning after meals: Food particles trapped in braces can cause bad breath and plaque buildup.

Schedule a Pediatric Dental Cleaning in Prosper, TX

Bad brushing with braces can lead to serious dental health issues, but with the right tools and habits, you can keep your child’s smile bright and healthy.Schedule a kids teeth cleaning at our pediatric dental office in Prosper, TX. Call (469) 228-4402 to book an appointment or visit us at 240 S. Preston Road, Suite 10, Prosper, TX.

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