Skip to main content

How often should you brush your teeth during orthodontic treatment?

You are aware that you need to brush your teeth often to keep your mouth healthy, but brushing your teeth with braces can feel like such a chore. Before you think about skipping this task, remember that food stuck between your teeth will become the plaque that eventually causes tooth decay and may cause issues with your gums. 
Twice a Day
The standard advice that most dentists will give you is to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once. Remember that the goal is to remove food particles. If you’re going to brush in the morning and before bed, you should make sure to brush after you’ve eaten both meals. Make sure that you’re brushing for a full two minutes – 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth. If you are in need of orthodontic floss threaders, Dr. Jusino's office will gladly provide these to you. Call us at (248) 476-3000 or stop by our office Monday-Thursday 8:30 am-5:00 p.m.
After Eating
After eating, food particles settle around your teeth. When you have braces, there are even more places in which food can hide. While the dentist might recommend brushing twice a day, it’s smarter to brush after each meal and snack. This might not be convenient, but it will certainly keep your teeth healthier. Many people carry a small travel toothbrush to make this possible. If you are in need of a travel toothbrush, Dr. Jusino's office will gladly provide this to you. Call us at (248) 476-3000 or stop by our office Monday-Thursday 8:30 am-5:00 p.m.
When You Can’t Brush
You can still get rid of a large portion of food particles even if you can’t brush after every meal. Simply take some time to rinse your mouth out with water at the end of the meal. Put the water in your mouth and give it a good, strong swish. This loosens the food particles, and you can then discard those particles.
Brushing your teeth might not be the most thrilling task you do each day, but you will appreciate the way it makes your teeth sparkle, especially once the braces come off. Be sure to brush at least twice a day, and use the electric toothbrush Dr. Jusino's office provided you with at the beginning of treatment. This will ensure your teeth are being properly taken care of during treatment.