General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
Fixed orthodontic braces require particularly careful oral hygiene. Plaque can collect around brackets and at the gum line, encouraging enamel demineralisation followed by cavities or gingivitis.
Ask your orthodontist to demonstrate brushing adapted to your appliance. Dental floss or interdental brushes may complement cleaning; ask which aids suit you and how to reach difficult areas.
During treatment, avoid hard and sticky foods such as toffees and chewing gum. These precautions accompany wearing the appliance and do not replace cleaning your teeth.
Keep oral-health checks during treatment. Enamel decay can be present without pain: straight-looking teeth or absence of discomfort is not enough to assess their health.
A small gum wound caused by an appliance warrants a dental appointment in the coming days. Unbearable pain or difficulty opening your mouth warrants a consultation the same day.
At the next adjustment, report any area that remains difficult to clean or causes injury. Ask for your technique to be checked and clarify follow-up: discuss a practical difficulty before allowing plaque to accumulate.
Sources
Your health review
Review your health
Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.