You just got your braces, and you’ve been told not to eat popcorn or sticky candy for two years. You were very careful for the past year but you still managed to get food caught in the wires. What do you do? Dr. Viren Patel of Downtown Dental shares tips on how to clean your braces if you are caught in this scenario.
You will want to take any debris out with floss or a toothbrush. Make sure you are using proper brushing and flossing techniques specialized for braces. Here are some tips on how to brush with braces.
- Hold the brush sideways and guide your brush from tooth to tooth. Follow the natural shape of your teeth and gums.
- If you are brushing manually, make sure to brush for at least a few seconds before you move on to the next tooth. If you are using an electric toothbrush you don’t have to brush hard.
- Clean the brackets by getting the brush inside of them and clean under the wires.
- Remember to always change your toothbrush every 3-4 months.
