BRUSHING
Permanent stains, cavities and gum disease are all caused by bacteria that
live on teeth in a colorless sticky substance called plaque. PLAQUE MUST
BE REMOVED EVERY DAY. Braces make it harder to remove plaque. Brackets, bands
and archwires create nooks and crannies that are hard to reach, therefore
the brushing technique is different.
The brush should be placed against the teeth at an angle. The bristles should
be pushed UNDER the wire and between the teeth.
The brush should then be vibrated and moved in small circles in each area
of the mouth. This should be done from above and below the archwire. Scrub
all over the braces, teeth and gums in a circular motion and do not forget
the tongue side and the chewing surfaces. when the brushing is finished,
the braces should be shiny, the gum margin should be distinct and the gum
tissue should be firm and a light pink color. A careful brushing should take
3 minutes and should be done within 10 minutes after eating.
FLOSSING
Flossing during orthodonitc treatment is tricky and time consuming, but
with practice it can become an easy routine. Flossing WITH braces is more
important than flossing without them, because plaque collects around the
appliance. Plaque is the major cause of gum disease and must be removed daily.
Only floss can reach BETWEEN the teeth to remove plaque
WAXED floss or tape should be used; unwaxed floss will shred on the metal
edges of the bands and brackets. Use a piece of floss about 18" long.
Your orthodontic assistants can show you how it is held. The floss must be
threaded under the archwire before it is passed between the teeth.
Be careful not to snap the floss as it is moved between the teeth. Steady
pressure works best. Rub the floss up and down against each tooth surface;
avoid using a shoeshine motion. Do not force the floss hard into the gums,
but be sure to clean the tooth surface under the loose collar of the gum
tissue. The floss must be re-threaded for each point of contact area between
adjacent teeth. Do not forget the back side of the last tooth.
