Canadian Association of Orthodontists

The following is a guide to oral hygiene when wearing braces. This description of effective cleaning techiques is also available in Portable Document Format (PDF) for you to download and print.

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How to Clean Braces

Braces trap food very easily which promotes plaque formation. Plaque can lead to gum disease and enamel damage. With the daily use of effective oral hygiene techniques, plaque build-up can be prevented.

The foundation of good oral hygiene is effective brushing. This is done with a fluoridated tooth paste and a soft bristled brush. Brushing should be done after every meal and snack and should be done slowly and carefully. It is important to not only brush the braces but also brush both the inside and chewing surfaces of the teeth.

The three steps to Effective Brushing


Step 1		Step 2		Step 3

Flossing With Braces
Flossing with braces should be done once a day.


Floss Threader		Superfloss		How to use Floss

Other Cleaning Techniques
Other hygiene aids that can be used to help keep your braces clean include:


Proxy Brush		Sulcabrush		End Tuft Brush

Mouthwashes
Mouthwashes are good at helping to maintain a clean mouth.

Details

Be sure to talk with your orthodontist about other helpful tips on how to prevent permanent marks, or even cavities on your teeth, and also any gum infections (or problems) while you're wearing your braces.

Facts and Information
Self-Esteem
Insurance
Braces and Age
Braces and Colour
Functional Appliances
Oral Hygiene
Orthodontic Emergencies

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This web site is to provide information so that the public can make an informed decision with respect to orthodontic treatment. It is not intended to be used to represent or endorse a particular treatment method. Neither the CAO organization nor its officers are in any way liable for any orthodontic treatment rendered.
It is the individual's responsibility to use due diligence to select an orthodontist of their choice.

The examples of treatments shown are only representative of treatment possibilities and individual results will vary. Any similarities to treatments rendered to the reader are purely coincidental. Do not attempt to diagnose an orthodontic problem from the information presented.

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