Brushing and Flossing with Braces

It’s always important to maintain great oral hygiene, but it’s especially important with braces, as food and plaque have more places to hide.

You should brush and floss at least two times per day for at least two minutes each time. Make sure to cover all surfaces, including the front, back, side, and gum line. Use small circular motions to gently polish teeth. To brush the gum line, tilt brush at an angle toward the gums.

A fundamental oral hygiene routine for braces should include:

  • Soft bristle brush
  • Fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss

Flossing can be tricky with braces, but here is a list of special tools that can help:

  • Proxabrush ®: Shaped like a vertical brush, a Proxabrush can move food quickly and easily from between brackets.
  • Floss Threader: Similar to the way you might thread a needle, a floss threader is a plastic “needle” that guides the floss underneath the wire.
  • Superfloss: Superfloss has an extra-durable tip to make it easier for you to insert underneath the wire.
  • Platypus and Harp Orthodontic Flosser: These are by far the fastest and easiest way to floss with braces. They are made of plastic and hold floss taut, so that you can easily move underneath wires. The platypus is completely straight, while the harp flosser is at a 90-degree angle, making it easier for molars and the back of the mouth.
  • Water Pick: A water flosser is a device that provides a constant stream of water to move food and debris from your teeth and gum line.

Brushing and flossing enables you to get the best results from your orthodontic treatment, and keeps your teeth healthy and strong.

Our Location

19th Floor One Financial PlzHartford, CT 06103-2608

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

Closed

Tuesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "Great dentist -- I've had multiple procedures at his practice -- cleanings, fillings, and crowns -- all work has been excellent. The entire crew at Capitol Dental makes going to the dentist a pleasure -- how often can you say that?"
    Paul M.
  • "Dr. Haroian is an outstanding dentist. I've been seeing him for 13 years and can't imagine going to anyone else. I highly recommend him."
    John N.
  • "Dr. Haroian is a great dentist. He is personable and makes the visit enjoyable. He goes above and beyound to ensure the proper care for my teeth. If you are looking for an effective trustwothy dentist, I highly recommend Dr. Haroian."
    Mike B.
  • "I highly recommend Dr Haroian. My family and I have been seeing him for for more than 20 years. He is very competent, honest and accessible."
    Elizabeth D.
  • "My family and I have been going to Gregory Haroian for all of our dentistry needs since 2004. My husband and I and our four children are all clients. Appointments are on-time. The staff is helpful and personable, and we have always had great results. Thanks Greg!"
    Karen R.
  • "I have used Dr Haroian as my dentist most of my adult life. Also my family including my wife and two children. His office has always been an excellent place to receive dental care. I would and have recommended him to all my friends and family."
    Harry A.