Do I need to use a special orthodontic toothbrush?

It doesn't have to be an orthodontic toothbrush, but we do recommend one. Orthodontic toothbrushes have a groove down the middle of the bristles, making it easier to remove food debris around the brackets and wires. If you use a regular toothbrush, choose one with soft bristles and clean carefully above and below the appliances separately. Whichever brush you use, the area under the wire can't be reached with a toothbrush alone, so the key is to use an interdental brush as well. However, if the area around the brackets turns white, it's an early sign of cavities, so please come in to have it checked.