Dental Braces Taking Care of Your Braces 2

Question 1

Which type of toothbrush is generally best for cleaning around brackets and wires?

Accepted Answer

A soft-bristled or orthodontic toothbrush

Answer

Soft-bristled or specialized orthodontic brushes clean effectively without damaging brackets or irritating gums.

Question 2

How often should you brush your teeth while wearing braces?

Accepted Answer

After every meal and snack when possible

Answer

Food traps easily in braces, so brushing after meals helps prevent plaque buildup and decay.

Question 3

What tool is specifically designed to clean between the wire and the tooth?

Accepted Answer

An interdental (proxy) brush

Answer

Interdental or proxy brushes fit into tight spaces around wires and brackets that a regular brush misses.

Question 4

Why is flossing still important when you have braces?

Accepted Answer

It removes plaque and food the brush cannot reach

Answer

Flossing reaches between teeth and along the gumline where toothbrushes and food debris remain trapped.

Question 5

What device helps thread floss under the archwire more easily?

Accepted Answer

A floss threader or orthodontic floss

Answer

Floss threaders and stiff-ended orthodontic floss are made to pass floss beneath the archwire.

Dental Practice Test