You want to love your smile! Improper care of your teeth while wearing braces can lead to stains, tooth decay or white spots on your teeth. By following these simple dental hygiene practices while wearing braces you can ensure you will love your smile when the braces come off!

Carry a travel toothbrush and toothpaste with you. The American Dental Association recommends toothpaste with fluoride and without whitening.

Brush for two minutes after every meal, or at least rinse if you can’t brush, and especially make sure your teeth are clean before bed. Use of an electric toothbrush is highly recommended. Using an interdental brush on occasion to mix it up is a good idea as well, since they can get around the brackets to loosen food that might otherwise go untouched.

Brush at a 45-degree angle, pointed toward your gum line.

Floss every day, preferably before you brush. Use floss threaders, a Waterpik or orthodontic flossers.

Rinse with mouthwash at least once a day. Find an antiseptic mouthwash to rinse with after brushing thoroughly. This can help fight plaque build-up, gingivitis and bad breath.

See your general dentist every 4-6 months for a check-up and cleaning. Be sure to keep regular cleanings with your general dentist during orthodontic treatment to prevent cavities and other oral maladies from going unchecked.

At Super Orthodontics in Las Vegas, Nevada, we want you to love your smile, so take a few minutes every day to implement these hygiene tips and we know you will! If you have any questions, or would like to schedule a visit with Dr. Brian Chamberlain, please call 702-645-5100 today.