The benefits of braces are many, however, patients should be even more diligent about their oral hygiene. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth clean while wearing braces.

1.Angles Are Your Friend

Braces create even more nooks and crannies for food to hide. Be sure to rotate your brush so it scrubs your teeth and braces from every possible angle. This will help cover all the surface areas of your teeth.

2. Take Your Time With Each Tooth

Don’t rush their teeth cleaning sessions. A good rule of thumb to follow: spend at least ten seconds brushing each individual tooth. And remember to focus on more than just the front of the teeth, especially the gums.

3. Avoid Sticky Foods

This is good advice for everybody, but it’s especially important to avoid sticky foods while wearing braces. Avoid foods such as chunky peanut butter, gum, taffy, and caramel candies. For the most part, you can still enjoy the foods you love.

4. Try Proxy Brushes

Proxy brushes are those sticks with very small wire bristles. They can be found right next to regular toothbrushes. Some studies suggest that proxy brushes are even more effective than regular old floss.

5. Brush Right After Eating

Cleaning after each meal is necessary for people who wear braces. Small bits of food can easily get stuck between braces and teeth and letting them fester creates problems.

6. Keep Some Teeth Cleaning Tools With You At All Times

With the last tip in mind, be sure to have teeth cleaning supplies with you at all times. This means keeping a toothbrush and floss at the office and/or in your vehicle.

Finally, if you have any questions about keeping your teeth clean while wearing braces, contact one of Utah County locations. We have clinics in Payson, Provo, Spanish Fork, and Springville.