Getting braces is a big step toward a healthier, more confident smile—but it also means learning a new way to take care of teeth. For kids with braces, proper brushing is more important than ever. Those brackets and wires might work wonders on alignment, but they can also trap food and plaque if not cleaned correctly.
The good news? With a few simple tips and the right tools, brushing with braces can become an easy part of your child’s daily routine.
Why Brushing with Braces Matters
When kids wear braces, they’re at a higher risk for:
- Plaque buildup
- Gum inflammation
- Tooth discoloration (especially around brackets)
- Cavities and decalcification (white spots)
That’s why it’s so important to brush thoroughly and regularly. Good oral hygiene helps keep teeth strong and gums healthy throughout orthodontic treatment—so when the braces come off, the smile underneath is as beautiful as it is straight.
A Step-by-Step Brushing Routine for Kids with Braces
1. Start with Rinsing
Before brushing, have your child rinse their mouth with water to loosen any food particles stuck around the brackets and wires. This helps prep the teeth for a more effective clean.
2. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush or Electric Brush
Choose a soft-bristled brush with a small head that can easily get around braces. Many kids do well with electric toothbrushes, which provide extra power and often include built-in timers to encourage thorough brushing.
Pro tip: Replace the brush head more often, since braces can wear bristles out quickly.
3. Brush at an Angle
Teach your child to hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle:
- Above the brackets (toward the gumline)
- Below the brackets
- On top of the brackets and wires
Each area should get about 10 seconds of focused brushing. Be gentle but thorough—encourage small circular motions rather than harsh back-and-forth scrubbing.
4. Take Your Time
Brushing with braces should take at least two full minutes, twice a day. Use a timer or play a short song to help keep things fun and consistent.
5. Don’t Forget the Back Teeth and Chewing Surfaces
It’s easy to focus only on the front teeth, but every surface matters. Make sure your child brushes the tops, insides, and backs of their teeth—not just the areas with brackets.
6. Use Fluoride Toothpaste
A fluoride toothpaste helps protect against cavities and keeps enamel strong during orthodontic treatment. Make sure kids spit it out rather than swallowing.
Extra Tools That Make Brushing Easier
- Interdental brushes — These tiny brushes slip between brackets and wires to remove trapped food
- Water flossers — A kid-friendly alternative to floss that gently rinses debris and bacteria away
- Orthodontic floss threaders — Help kids reach between teeth where wires get in the way
- Antibacterial mouthwash — Adds an extra layer of protection and helps keep gums healthy
Your orthodontist may also recommend a prescription-strength fluoride rinse depending on your child’s needs.
Helping Your Child Build Great Habits
It’s normal for kids to need a little help and supervision at first. Make brushing part of a daily routine—before school and before bed—and check in often to make sure they’re doing a thorough job.
Encouragement goes a long way! Celebrate small wins, offer reminders, and help them understand how good brushing helps their braces do their job.
Brushing Now = Beautiful Smile Later
Braces are an investment in your child’s future—and keeping their teeth clean along the way is just as important as the treatment itself. With the right routine, tools, and support, your child can protect their oral health and reveal a bright, healthy smile when those braces come off.
Partner with an Orthodontic Team You Can Trust
At Haltom Orthodontics, we’re here to make the braces journey as smooth and successful as possible for both kids and parents. From teaching brushing techniques to providing personalized tips and product recommendations, we’re committed to supporting healthy habits at every stage of treatment.
If you ever have questions about oral hygiene, what tools to use, or how to make brushing easier for your child—we’re just a call or visit away.
Schedule a free consultation or reach out to our friendly team to learn more about how we can help your child build a strong, confident smile—one brush at a time.
