Most “teenagers” and adolescents wear braces. There are also younger and adult patients, but keeping up hygiene is equally essential for everyone. This routine may take 5-10 minutes. Please read the hygiene rules carefully!
1. Choose a good toothbrush. Your orthodontist will recommend a toothbrush; if they haven’t, try to choose a good one (not electric) or at least ask your treating doctor.
2. Put toothpaste on the brush. Start brushing with small circular movements. First the front teeth, then the back teeth, gradually moving on to the chewing surfaces. If your orthodontist has recommended a different brushing method, follow it.
3. Hold the toothbrush at an angle to the braces. Then make small up-and-down movements.
4. Brush every surface of every tooth (front, back, chewing) and make sure all teeth are clean. Spit.
5. Rinse well with water and check again. Are your teeth really clean? Have you brushed enough?
6. Use dental floss. Most orthodontists recommend various types of floss to their patients.
7. Thread the floss under the braces and gently move it up and down, as you normally do when flossing. Repeat these movements for every tooth.
8. After flossing, check the spaces between your teeth. Is there any food left? If so, repeat the procedure.
9. Check every tooth and every brace, including the brace locks. Orthodontists usually recommend additional hygiene products, such as interdental brushes and water flossers. If your treating doctor has recommended them, be sure to use them.
10. Use a mouthwash.
11. Check everything and, if necessary, repeat the steps needed
