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Brushing and Flossing
Brushing
How and when to brush:
It’s best that you brush your teeth at least three times a day, preferably after each meal. Our orthodontists suggest that each time you brush you do it first with plain water and then repeat the process with fluoride toothpaste. We recommend that you not use whitening products since you won’t be able to whiten the entire surface of the teeth while wearing braces/Invisalign attachments.
When brushing, you should:
- Start on the outside of your teeth and work the brush in circular motions at a straight angle.
- Brush upper jaw with a downward angle (for the lower jaw, angle up) when cleaning between braces and gums.
- Brush upper jaw with an upward angle (use a downward angle for the lower jaw) as you finish cleaning the outside of your teeth.
- Be gentle while brushing the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- Brush the inside surfaces of your teeth last.
- Brush your tongue and palate (roof of your mouth).
- Brush any removable appliances you are wearing.
- We recommend using an interdental toothbrush to help keep your braces, gums, and teeth clean.
Flossing
The Importance of Flossing:
Floss at least once daily. You can use a threader to help you pull the floss beneath the underwire. Once it is through, carefully move the floss up and down between your teeth all the way to the gums. Be sure you use a different section of the floss for each tooth.
