Behl Orthodontics - Virginia Beach, Hampton, & Chesapeake Virginia

757.224.3004

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is always important but it’s ESPECIALLY important when you have braces. If plaque builds up on your teeth and around your braces, you could develop swollen gums, bad breath, cavities and discolored teeth. You should brush your teeth after every meal so make sure you bring a small toothbrush with you to school or work. With braces, your toothbrush will wear out faster so make sure you replace it when the bristles start to fray.

Brushing Tips:

Use a soft bristle toothbrush
Use a small amount of toothpaste
Use circular motions around the gumline for about 10 seconds on each tooth
Brush every tooth slowly, making sure you get around your brackets
Brush the lower teeth up and the upper teeth down
Don’t forget to brush your tongue and roof of your mouth!

Flossing is a MUST but can be a little tricky at first. We’ll make sure you know exactly how to floss with braces before you leave our office. Floss threaders and waterpiks may come in handy!