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Your Braces Are On — Now What? Brushing Tips for the First Week

Teen boy with braces smiling and talking on the phone while relaxing by a window.
By the end of the first week, most patients feel right at home with their braces—and ready to show off their smile.

So, you just got your braces on—congrats! You’re officially on the road to a healthier, straighter smile. But we’d be fibbing if we said the first week wasn’t a little tricky. Your teeth might feel sore, your mouth may be adjusting, and you’re probably second-guessing every bite of food and brush of your toothbrush.


The good news? That wobbly start doesn’t last long. With the right brushing habits from day one, you can keep your teeth clean, your gums healthy, and your orthodontic journey on track. This guide breaks down how to care for your braces during that all-important first week—no fluff, no guesswork, just simple, proven tips from the team at Bright Braces.



Why the First Week Matters

That first week sets the tone for your entire treatment. If you build strong habits early on, you’re more likely to:

  • Avoid common issues like plaque buildup or white spots

  • Keep your gums healthy and inflammation-free

  • Prevent food from getting trapped around brackets

  • Stay on track with your treatment timeline

Neglecting oral hygiene, even just for a few days, can lead to setbacks. So let’s dive into how you can make brushing with braces second nature.



What You’ll Feel in the First Few Days

It’s completely normal to feel some discomfort after your braces go on. Your teeth are beginning to shift, and your cheeks and lips are getting used to the brackets and wires. During this period, brushing might feel awkward—but it’s more important than ever.


Expect some of the following:

  • Soreness when chewing

  • Sensitivity around the gums

  • Irritation from brackets rubbing inside the cheeks

  • Light bleeding while brushing (especially if gums are inflamed)

Stick with it. Gentle brushing helps soothe inflammation and promotes healing. And remember, discomfort is temporary—but the benefits of a clean, healthy smile last a lifetime.



How Often Should You Brush With Braces?

With braces, the standard twice-a-day routine isn’t quite enough. Here’s the goal:

  • Brush 3–4 times per day: Ideally after every meal and before bed.

  • Rinse after snacks: If you can’t brush, at least rinse your mouth with water to dislodge food.

Consistency is key. Even if your mouth feels sore, gently brushing will help prevent irritation from turning into infection or decay.



The Right Toothbrush for Braces

Let’s talk tools. A regular toothbrush might not cut it anymore. Here’s what works best:

  • Soft-bristled toothbrush: Gentle on gums, yet effective at cleaning around brackets.

  • Orthodontic toothbrush: V-cut bristles designed to clean above and below wires.

  • Electric toothbrush: If approved by your orthodontist, these can boost your brushing power.

Whichever you choose, just make sure the bristles aren’t too hard. Soft and steady wins the race.



Step-by-Step Brushing Guide for the First Week

Here’s how to get those teeth and braces sparkling clean:


1. Rinse First

Swish water around your mouth to loosen debris. This makes brushing more effective.


2. Start at the Top (Above the Brackets)

Tilt your brush at a 45-degree angle and sweep gently across the top of the brackets and along the gumline.


3. Brush Straight On (Front of Brackets)

Use small circular motions to clean directly on the face of each bracket. Don’t rush—take your time.


4. Angle Below the Brackets

Tilt the brush up to reach the lower edge of the brackets and under the wire.


5. Brush Chewing Surfaces and Back Teeth

Don’t forget the tops of molars and behind your back teeth.


6. Brush the Tongue and Roof of the Mouth

Keeps your breath fresh and helps reduce bacteria.


Total time? Aim for two full minutes every time you brush.



What About Toothpaste?

Choose a fluoride toothpaste to help protect against cavities. You don’t need anything super fancy or extra whitening (in fact, that can create uneven coloring on your teeth once the braces come off). Just go with something gentle and effective.



Interdental Brushes and Flossing

Now that you have braces, your toothbrush needs backup. Interdental brushes (those tiny little brushes that slide between the wires) help clean areas your brush can’t reach.


Flossing might feel intimidating at first, but it’s 100% doable with the right tools:

  • Floss threaders: Flexible plastic tools that help thread floss behind wires

  • Orthodontic floss: Pre-cut strands with a stiff end

  • Water flossers: A great option for deep cleaning and sensitive gums

Try to floss at least once a day, even during the first week. It might take a little longer at first, but your gums will thank you.



Mouthwash: Yes or No?

A gentle fluoride rinse can be helpful in the first week, especially if your gums are sore. Look for an alcohol-free option to avoid stinging. Swish for about 30 seconds after brushing, especially before bed.



Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to slip into bad habits when braces are new. Keep an eye out for these:

  • Brushing too hard: Can damage enamel and irritate gums

  • Skipping spots: Especially around the gumline and under the wire

  • Using whitening toothpaste: May leave uneven shades once braces are removed

  • Flossing too aggressively: Go gently to avoid hurting your gums

If you're unsure about your technique, ask your orthodontic team for a quick demo or tips. We love showing patients how to make brushing easier!



When to Call the Office

The first week shouldn’t be unbearable. If you notice anything unusual, give us a call. Reach out if:

  • Brackets or wires come loose

  • Soreness doesn’t ease after a few days

  • You see swollen, bleeding gums despite gentle brushing

  • Something just doesn’t feel right

We’re always happy to take a look or offer solutions. There’s no such thing as a silly question in orthodontics.



Bright Braces Tips for Brushing Success

We’ve helped thousands of patients through their first week with braces, and here are a few of our go-to Bright Braces tips:

  • Keep a travel kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss in your backpack or bag

  • Set reminders on your phone for brushing if you tend to forget

  • Use orthodontic wax to ease irritation while you adjust

  • Make it fun: turn on your favorite 2-minute song while you brush!

Building a solid routine from the start makes everything easier. Before you know it, brushing with braces becomes second nature.



Close-up of a smiling teen with freckles holding a toothbrush near their metal braces, preparing to brush.
Getting started right: A gentle brush and a confident smile go a long way in week one with braces.

You Got This!

The first week with braces can feel like a lot. There are new routines to build, soreness to manage, and tiny tools to learn. But every small step you take now sets you up for a smoother, more successful journey ahead.


Brushing is your superpower. Use it well, and you’ll protect that investment in your smile every single day. Our team at Bright Braces is here to make sure your first week—and every week after—goes smoothly. From brushing demos to personalized tips, we’re just a call or click away.


Schedule your free consultation or follow-up appointment today and let’s keep those braces (and that smile) sparkling clean.

 
 
 

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