Oral Hygiene Instructions

TOOTH BRUSHING INSTRUCTIONS

Brush in a sequence so no area is missed, for example, top then bottom, right then left. Brush each area below for about a count of 10 in your head. Angle the brush to target each area

  1. The gum line along the front of your teeth. (gentle, circular strokes)
  2. Over the top edge of the bracket (firm, back and forth strokes)
  3. Over the entire bracket face (firm, circular strokes)
  4. Under the bottom of the bracket (firm, back and forth strokes)
  5. The gum line on the inside of the mouth, by the roof of your mouth and tongue (gentle, circular strokes)
  6. Biting surfaces of the teeth (firm, back and forth strokes)

Floss​ every night using ​floss threaders​ or ​Super floss.
Use ​Listerine Zero​ to fight germs, prevent gum disease and keep your breath fresh. Use ​Act​ or other fluoride rinse nightly to keep teeth strong.

Waterpiks​ are highly recommended​ to keep teeth and mouth clean. We like the Waterpik Complete, which has a sonic toothbrush and a Waterpik in one unit. Waterpik before you brush to remove large amounts of food and plaque. Waterpik at your gum line and between the teeth, ‘tracing the tooth’, on the lip and tongue sides of all teeth. Spend extra time around appliances.

Plaque​ is the white, cakey build-up that forms on teeth after eating or drinking. When teeth are not properly cleaned, this can remove minerals from the teeth causing permanent white stains on your teeth. This is called ​decalcification “decal” and will not go away!

Most patients will experience some discomfort during the first few days of treatment. However, brushing and flossing is still required and cannot be skipped. Patients with clean, healthy teeth and gums experience less discomfort. If you have questions or concerns, please call immediately.

Proxy brush alert: ​We do not recommend using a proxy brush due to the common misuse of the device. If misused, permanent damage to the gum tissue can result. Proxy brushes should only be used in an up-and-down motion, NOT passed between the teeth or gums. Proxy brushes are not a substitute for floss.