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 | At first, doing a good job removing plaque from your teeth and along the gumline may seem difficult with fixed braces. But keep at it: with a bit of practice, it will get easier - here is some advice on doing it right:
First, take off any elastic bands and removable parts (like headgear)
Use a dentist recommended brushing method - here is one example:
Place your brush at a 45 angle to the gum. Apply gentle pressure as you brush with short back and forth strokes, cleaning each tooth individually for about 10 seconds
Use the same brushing motion on all inner and outer tooth surfaces
Don't forget to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth - and make sure you reach the teeth at the back too
Finish by cleaning around your braces, brushing first from the top and then from the bottom. Brush gently and take care not to break or bend any of the brackets or wires
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 | Ask your dentist or orthodontist to show you how to clean around your braces:
Choose a "threading floss" with a stiffened end that threads it through the gap between each tooth - above the wire for your upper teeth and below the wire for your lower teeth
Curve the floss around each tooth in a "C" shape and gently move it up and down the side of each tooth, including under the gumline. Unroll a new section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth
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