🦷 Why Is Oral Hygiene More Important with Braces?
Braces and aligners can trap food, plaque, and bacteria in ways your teeth alone never could. This makes it easier for:
Cavities to form
Gums to get inflamed
Teeth to stain permanently
Breath to smell... less than fresh 😬
🧼 Daily Oral Care Routine
🪥 1. Brush After Every Meal
Brushing after breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, if possible, is essential.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric one
Brush along your gumline and around the brackets
Brush for 2 full minutes
🧴 2. Rinse with Mouthwash
Use an alcohol-free fluoride rinse daily to:
Strengthen enamel
Kill bacteria
Reach spots you missed
🚫 What to Avoid During Treatment
❌ Hard, Sticky, or Chewy Foods
Caramel, gum, popcorn, ice, and hard candy can break brackets or get stuck
Apples, carrots, and crusty bread should be cut into small pieces
❌ Sugary Drinks
Soda, energy drinks, and even fruit juice can cause white spots (decalcification) around your brackets, permanent scars on your teeth.
👩⚕️ Don’t Skip Dental Visits!
Many people think they only need to see their orthodontist, but regular dental checkups and cleanings are still crucial during treatment. Your dentist checks for cavities, gum issues, and gives your teeth a professional clean.
😷 What About Clear Aligners?
Clear aligner patients have it a little easier, no brackets, no wires, but that doesn’t mean you can skip care.
Important tips:
Brush and floss before putting trays back in
Clean your aligners daily (never with toothpaste!)
Don’t eat or drink anything (except water) with trays in
✅ Healthy Mouth, Beautiful Smile
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about straightening teeth, it’s about creating a smile that lasts. That means keeping your teeth and gums healthy during the process, not just after the braces come off.
A little extra effort now = a lifetime of confident, cavity-free smiles.
