Toothbrushing Hints
- Angle or tilt the bristles of the toothbrush and the push the bristles under the archwire.
- Jiggle the toothbrush while it remains under the archwire.
DO NOT TAKE LONG STROKES.
- Brush from above and below the archwire.
- Brush along the gumline on upper and lower teeth.
- If gums are bleeding, sore, red, and a white creamy substance (plaque) is accumulating on the teeth, proper brushing has not occurred. After following the above instructions for a few days, the bleeding and plaque will disappear.
- The areas most often missed when brushing are between the archwire and gum and underneath the archwire.
- Improper brushing with braces can lead to permanent white spots, cavities, bleeding gums, and bad breath.
Brushing Contest
A report card for Oral Hygiene and Brushing is filled out at each appointment. A grade of either excellent, good, fair, or poor is given. If the patient's brushing is excellent, they will be eligible to win a prize.
Other Recommendations
PROXYBRUSH - good for cleaning underneath wire and between teeth.
FLOSS - floss threaders are used to place the floss underneath the archwire.
FLUORIDE RINSE - to be brushed on before going to sleep after normal brushing.
WATER PIK - helpful in washing food away from braces and appliances.
ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH - good alternative if unable to brush effectively with regular toothbrush.
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