5 Brushing Tips for Teens With Braces

Posted on December 8, 2023

Are you about to start braces treatment? If so, you’re taking a step towards a more beautiful, straight smile. According to a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, one-third of surveyed participants could benefit from orthodontic care. If you have a teen with braces and retainers, here are some brushing tips that may be helpful.

1. Buy a Soft Toothbrush

Brushing your teeth while wearing braces or retainers means being as gentle as possible. Start by buying a soft bristle toothbrush and use gentle movements. A soft toothbrush is less likely to get caught in your brackets, and it’s also less likely to irritate your tooth or gum areas that are already fragile.

2. Use Less Toothpaste

You don’t need a lot of toothpaste to brush your teeth. If you overload the brush with toothpaste, it may become overwhelming when you brush. Instead, use a small amount to properly cleanse your teeth and ensure you’re handling your brackets appropriately.

3. Use Proper Motion

It’s also important to be mindful of the brushing motions you’re using in different parts of your mouth. Brushing around the gum area should involve moving the brush in small and gentle circles. When you’re brushing your lower teeth, use an upward motion. When you’re brushing your upper teeth, use a downward motion.

4. Take Your Time

Make sure you give yourself enough time to properly brush in both the morning and night. Take time to brush each tooth for about ten seconds or more. While brushing with braces and retainers, you must brush your teeth slowly to avoid irritation or accidents. Do what you can to avoid rushing in the morning, so you’re not tempted to brush your teeth too quickly.

5. Include the Whole Mouth

Once you’ve properly cleansed your teeth, the job isn’t over yet. You still have bacteria on your tongue and upper mouth, so gently use your brush to cleanse those areas as well. If you have access to a tongue scraper, you can also use that to get rid of bacteria from the tongue after you brush.

As you can see, you can properly clean your mouth when wearing braces and retainers. Remember to use a soft brush and be gentle and concise with your movements. If you’re ready to take on orthodontic care, contact our local office today for a consultation.