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Sometimes braces make cleaning your teeth and gums difficult. If this is the case for you, there is no need to worry. Dr. John R. Schouten and our orthodontic team will be happy to give you the tips and recommendations you need to keep your smile in tip-top shape.

First, you need to brush your teeth twice a day: every morning and every night. As you do so, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. The soft bristles will clean your teeth and care for your gums and the fluoride toothpaste will nourish and strengthen your smile. When you’re done brushing, use an interdental brush to clean the small nooks and crannies around your braces.

Second, floss your teeth at least once a day—more if possible. In fact, it’s best to floss after each meal and snack, especially because there is a high chance you’ll have food stuck in your teeth and around your braces. To properly floss, use the loop-shaped tool we gave you and thread the floss in the space between the tooth and wire. From there, you should push the floss between the teeth and clean each side as well as along the gumline.

Third, make sure to visit your dentist every six months for a routine dental cleaning. This is important because the tools and techniques used during this appointment can completely remove the harmful plaque and tartar that grow around your braces hardware. If you don’t remove them regularly, you can fall victim to tooth decay and gum disease.

Do you have questions about how to clean your smile when you have braces in Springville, Utah? If so, call Schouten Orthodontics at 801.491.9372. Our orthodontic team is here to assist you in any way we can!