If you’ve recently gotten braces, you’ve probably noticed that brushing isn’t as simple as it used to be. The brackets and wires love to trap food, and no matter how hard you brush, something always seems to get stuck. The truth is, most people with braces make a few easy-to-fix brushing mistakes without even realising it. Here are seven of the most common ones and how to fix them.
1. Not Brushing Long Enough
Many people underestimate the amount of time they should spend brushing, especially when wearing braces. A quick two-minute brush might work for someone without brackets and wires, but with braces, you need extra time to get around every surface. Dentists generally recommend brushing for at least three to four minutes, ensuring you clean above, below, and around each bracket. A good tip is to set a timer or play a short song to ensure you’re brushing long enough.
2. Using the Wrong Toothbrush for Braces
Not all toothbrushes are created equal, especially when it comes to braces. A regular flat-bristled brush often can’t reach between brackets or under wires effectively. Instead, use a soft-bristled orthodontic toothbrush or an electric toothbrush designed for braces, featuring a small, round head. These brushes are designed to reach tricky spots around brackets and remove more plaque without irritating your gums or damaging your braces. Interdental brushes are also great for cleaning between wires where a regular toothbrush can’t reach.
3. Skipping the Angles
Brushing straight across your teeth doesn’t cut it when you have braces. You need to change your brush angle frequently to remove food and plaque from all sides. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle above and below the brackets, and gently move in small circular motions. This technique helps dislodge food debris and prevents the white “halo” stains that often appear around brackets after braces come off.
4. Forgetting to Rinse and Floss
Flossing is easy to skip when you have braces. It’s time-consuming and can feel impossible at first. But skipping it is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Food easily gets trapped between teeth and around wires, leading to plaque buildup and gum irritation. Use a floss threader or orthodontic flosser to make the process easier. Following up with an antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash helps rinse away debris and strengthen your enamel.
5. Ignoring the Gum Line
Brushing only your brackets and the tops of your teeth won’t keep your mouth clean. Plaque tends to accumulate along the gum line, which can lead to gingivitis if ignored. When brushing, gently clean the area where your teeth meet your gums. Use short, circular motions and light pressure to stimulate the gums without irritating them. Healthy gums are crucial to a smooth orthodontic journey.
6. Using Too Much Force
It’s a common misconception that brushing harder means cleaning better. In reality, using force can damage your enamel, irritate gums, and even loosen brackets. The key is gentle but thorough brushing. Let the bristles do the work. Focus on technique and consistency rather than pressure. If your toothbrush bristles are splaying out after a few weeks, you’re probably brushing too hard.
7. Neglecting to Check Your Work
Even after brushing, it’s easy to miss spots without realising it. That’s why orthodontists often recommend using disclosing tablets. They tint the plaque areas so you can see where you’re missing. Another good habit is to check your teeth in the mirror after brushing. Look for any leftover food particles or spots that appear dull or filmy. Paying attention to these small details helps prevent long-term damage and keeps your braces clean and fresh.
Final Thoughts
Brushing with braces takes extra care and attention, but every bit of effort pays off in the end. By avoiding these seven common mistakes and using the right tools and techniques, you can maintain a healthy mouth throughout your orthodontic journey and ensure your smile looks its best when the braces come off. Your orthodontist can also provide guidance on effective brushing methods and recommend products that make cleaning easier. Just a few additional minutes each day can go a long way toward protecting your teeth and gums.
