Gum ortho brush
With braces, use a soft orthodontic brush, fluoride toothpaste, and an interdental brush to clean around brackets and the gumline.
The short answer
For gums around braces, use a soft-bristled orthodontic toothbrush and a small interdental brush to clean above, below, and between the brackets.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
An orthodontic brush has a shaped bristle profile that can reach around brackets and the archwire. An interdental brush has a narrow wire core with bristles and cleans spaces that a standard brush may miss, including the gumline beside brackets.
What can you do next?
Brush at the gumline first, then angle the bristles above and below each bracket; finish with the interdental brush under the wire and between teeth. Use fluoride toothpaste, clean removable appliances separately, and replace a brush when its bristles bend.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange dental care for persistent bleeding, swollen gums, bad breath, or areas that remain coated despite cleaning. Contact the orthodontic clinic for a loose wire, detached bracket, or an interdental brush that cannot pass without force.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which brush size fits each gap, whether a powered brush is suitable, and how to clean around your specific brackets or aligner attachments. Ask for a demonstration using a mirror.
Frequently asked questions
Should an orthodontic brush replace floss?
No; it is one part of cleaning, while floss or a threader can clean contact points that a brush cannot enter.
Why do gums bleed when I brush braces?
Plaque-related gum inflammation commonly causes bleeding, although forceful brushing or an injury can also contribute.