Daily Care
Brushing and Flossing, Step by Step
Brush three times daily and floss nightly after brushing to remove the plaque a toothbrush misses. The technique matters more in braces than it ever did before — here’s how to do it right.
The Routine
Six Steps, Every Time
A quick, repeatable routine that protects your enamel and keeps every bracket clean. Run it three times a day.
01
Toothpaste, Lightly
Use a toothbrush with a small amount of toothpaste.
02
Circle the Gumline
Use circular, vibrating motions around the gumline for about 10 seconds on each tooth.
03
One Tooth at a Time
Brush every tooth slowly. No skimming — each bracket deserves its own pass.
04
Cover Every Surface
Brush the lower teeth up and the upper teeth down. Also brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth.
05
Floss the Gum Area
Floss carefully around the gum area. A threader or super floss slips under the wire.
06
Floss Every Tooth
Floss around each tooth — not just the spots that bother you. The whole mouth, every night.
What Not to Do
Common Mistakes That Slow You Down
The little habits that wreck enamel, stretch your treatment, or leave plaque hiding behind brackets.
- Brushing too hard — it damages gums and wears enamel
- Using a stiff-bristled brush — always choose soft
- Brushing horizontally — small circles at the gumline clean better
- Skipping the gumline — that's where plaque builds fastest
- Letting a toothbrush get old — replace it when bristles fray
- Skipping floss because of the wire — use a threader or water flosser
- Using mouthwash instead of brushing — rinses never replace mechanical cleaning
Need Help?
Not Sure Your Technique Is Working?
At your next appointment, ask Dr. Grover to walk you through it. A two-minute demo at the chair beats a year of guessing — and we’ll show you exactly where plaque is sneaking through.