Fixed braces are effective at straightening teeth, but brackets and wires can make everyday cleaning a little more difficult. Food and plaque can get caught around them, so adjusting your usual brushing routine is important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy during treatment.
Why Cleaning Is Harder With Fixed Braces
Brackets and wires create extra surfaces where plaque and food particles can collect. This means your usual brushing routine may not reach everywhere. If plaque is left to build up, it can cause staining, gum inflammation and, in some cases, early signs of tooth decay around the brackets.
Brushing Technique That Actually Works
Use a soft-bristled or orthodontic toothbrush and brush for at least two minutes, twice a day. Take your time around each bracket, brushing above, below and around it. An interspace brush, sometimes called a single-tufted brush, can help clean the small areas a standard toothbrush may miss.
- Brush after every meal where possible.
- Angle the bristles towards the gumline and bracket edges.
- Replace your toothbrush when the bristles start to fray.
Flossing and Interdental Cleaning
Floss threaders or orthodontic floss let you thread the floss underneath the wire, so you can still clean between your teeth as normal. It takes a little more effort with fixed braces, but it is an important daily step. A water flosser can also help remove food and debris that brushing misses, although it should not completely replace flossing.
Mouthwash and Orthodontic Wax
A fluoride mouthwash and some orthodontic wax are both worth keeping close by during treatment. The mouthwash can help reduce plaque and strengthen enamel between brushes, while the wax eases any rubbing if a bracket or wire irritates your mouth as it adjusts.
Foods and Drinks to Be Mindful Of
Hard, sticky and very sugary foods are best limited while you have fixed braces. They can increase the risk of damaged brackets and tooth decay. Toffees, hard sweets, crusty bread and fizzy drinks are some common examples to cut back on during treatment.
Watching for Warning Signs
Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath or white or brown marks around your brackets can be signs that plaque is building up. If you notice any of these changes, speak to your dental team rather than trying to deal with the problem yourself.
Need Help Keeping Your Braces and Teeth Clean?
Keeping your teeth clean during orthodontic treatment can take a little extra care. If you are unsure about the best way to look after your teeth and braces, our orthodontic team at Smile Orthodontics can offer advice tailored to your treatment.
Whether you are having fixed braces in Norwich, Spalding or at our Northway clinic in Scarborough, you can get in touch with our team to arrange a consultation.
nt from a specialist orthodontist.
At Smile Orthodontics in Norwich, Spalding, and Scarborough, our experienced team provides personalised treatment for both children and adults, using modern techniques designed for comfortable and effective results.
Contact us today to book your consultation and discover the treatment that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I brush my teeth with fixed braces?
Brushing after every meal is ideal, and at minimum twice daily for two minutes each time, using a soft bristled or orthodontic toothbrush.
Can I use mouthwash with fixed braces?
Yes, a fluoride mouthwash can help reduce plaque and support enamel strength between brushes, though it should not replace brushing and flossing.
What foods should I avoid with fixed braces?
Hard, sticky or very sugary foods and drinks are best limited, as they increase the risk of damaged brackets and tooth decay.
Will I get white marks on my teeth after my braces are removed?
White or discoloured marks can appear if plaque has been allowed to build up around the brackets, which is why consistent daily cleaning matters throughout treatment. Your dental team can advise on this at your check-ups.
