Purchase a toothbrush that has soft bristles and a tube of fluoride toothpaste. Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to the brush. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth. Move it in small circles, getting all tooth surfaces. Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth, then rinse. Do this three to four times per day.
At least once a day, floss your teeth. Use a floss threader for this if you have braces. Move the floss gently up and down between all teeth but to do use a sawing motion as this can irritate the gums. Floss between the archwire and the teeth as well. This is most important before bed.
An interdental toothbrush can be used in addition to your regular toothbrush. It is used to get under and around your braces so your teeth are extra clean. It must be used gently in order to avoid damaging braces.
Peroxyl, a hydrogen peroxide antiseptic mouth rinse, will reduce inflammation to your gums and cheeks. Peroxyl helps to prevent infection and decrease irritation that may develop from your braces. Rinse your mouth with two teaspoons of Peroxyl (half a capful) for one minute and then spit it out. You may use Peroxyl up to four times daily following your schedule for brushing: after meals (or after school) and before bed. Just like using peroxide for a scrape on your skin, Peroxyl helps the inside of your mouth heal. Peroxyl can be used for general irritation caused by your braces or for canker sores, cheek bites and other minor temporary injuries to the gums.
Removable appliances can generally be brushed when you brush your teeth. However, some appliances should not be brushed. Ask your doctor and follow the exact directions for cleaning removable appliances.
Phos-Flur is a sodium fluoride gel that helps prevent tooth decay while you are wearing braces by killing bacteria and replacing minerals in tooth enamel that have been exposed to harmful acids. The use of Phos-Flur does not replace daily brushing and flossing but should be done following your daily schedule at bedtime. Place a small strip of Phos-Flur on a toothbrush and apply it to your teeth for one minute and spit it out. You may not eat or drink for 30 minutes after you use Phos-Flur. It is important for the active ingredient to stay on your teeth for 30 minutes, so do not wash it away by eating or drinking.
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