If you have braces, you might notice that small pieces of food get caught sometimes between the wires. This can create some health issues, cause decay and bad breath. It is very important to floss in order to protect you mouth and get a step closer that that beautiful smile.
Flossing. You should floss at least once a day. It might get a little complicated at first, but we can go through it together… The floss needs to be pulled under the archwire. A Floss Threader facilitates this.
Pull the floss through the threader and push the floss threader under the archwire and pull the floss through.
Pull the floss up between the teeth and gently move it up and down the side of both teeth. Remember to move it up all the way under the gums. When you are done, pull the floss and use a different section of it for the next tooth.
If you want to get more information about your smile and oral health, please visit us at www.hansonplaceortho.com and schedule your appointment today!
Monday, August 17, 2009
How to Floss with Braces
Monday, July 27, 2009
Brushing with Braces
Oral hygiene is the number 1 factor for a healthy mouth. But when you have braces, it is even more important to maintain a good oral care throughout of your treatment, with some little extras.
Braces, wires, bands and retainers can all trap food particles and make it difficult to brush or floss away plaque. Careful brushing and flossing, preferably after every meal and snack, is the best way to prevent plaque building up. Tooth decay and gum disease. And really, who wants gum disease?
Brushing. The outside of the teeth should be brushed at a straight angle, using circular vibrating motions. You should also clean the area between the gums and braces by angling the brush down (up for the lower jaw, down for the lower jaw). Remember to brush the surface and the inside of the teeth as well!
Here is a short video that can help you understand the basics of brushing with braces:
If you want to get more information about your smile and oral health, please visit us at www.hansonplaceortho.com and schedule your appointment today!
