Looking after your braces

Name: Guilford Orthodontics
Telephone: 01483 567 772

We want your orthodontic treatment to go as swiftly and smoothly as possible – and that requires looking after your braces properly! Here are our top tips for keeping your smile healthy during treatment.

How to clean and care for fixed braces

Fixed braces give food extra places to hide. To prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay, it’s important to clean around your brackets carefully and thoroughly. This will help to prevent cavities and permanent staining.

To clean your fixed braces you should:

Brush your teeth for five minutes three times a day - paying close attention to each side of your bracket.
Brush your teeth after every meal and snack.

Clean your tongue, gums and every tooth surface according to the demonstration you have been given.
Use an alcohol-free mouthwash once a day. Before bed is best.
Use disclosing tablets once a week to find problem areas.
Use a floss threader daily to floss between each tooth.

Please note: Your treatment may be terminated at the discretion of your Specialist Orthodontist if you do not follow proper care and cleaning instructions.

How to clean and care for removable braces

It is a lot easier to keep your teeth clean with removable braces (like clear aligners). But there are still some things to consider to ensure your treatment goes smoothly.

To care for your removable braces you should:

Clean your teeth three times a day before wearing the brace to avoid decay.
Brush your brace with your toothbrush and warm water (not hot) each time you clean your teeth. Do not use toothpaste on your brace.
Use alcohol-free mouthwash daily to keep your mouth clean.
Use disclosing tablets once a week to find problem areas.
Occasionally soak your brace in a solution like Retainerbrite to soften buildup and disinfect your brace.
Remove your brace to eat, clean your teeth or play sports of any kind. Apart from these activities, the brace should be worn 24 hours a day to keep treatment on track.
Clean your brace before bed and wear it to sleep.
When not in use, store your brace in its designated container to minimise loss or breakage.
Alert our team as soon as possible if your brace is lost or damaged.