Oral Hygiene with Braces: Tips for a Healthy, Cavity-Free Smile
Braces have come a long way thanks to modern technology. But even with these advances, oral hygiene with braces requires extra attention. Cleaning your teeth becomes more challenging with brackets and wires, and without proper care, you risk cavities, white spots, or gum issues. The good news? With a consistent routine and the right tools, you can keep your teeth healthy throughout your orthodontic journey.
Brush After Every Meal
One of the most important steps in how to clean teeth with braces is brushing after every meal. A sticky layer of food particles and bacteria, called plaque, clings to your teeth after eating. Braces create even more nooks where plaque can hide—especially between the brackets and gums. If not removed, plaque buildup can lead to white spots that permanently scar your teeth.
To prevent this, brush thoroughly about 15 minutes after eating and again before bed. Focus on getting around each bracket and along the gumline.
Use Special Tools to Clean Around Braces
Your regular toothbrush might not reach all the tricky spots around your braces. That’s why your oral hygiene with braces should include:
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Interproximal or interdental toothbrush – These tree-shaped brushes help clean around brackets and wires.
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Floss threaders or floss picks for braces – These make it easier to floss between teeth and remove trapped food.
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Water flossers – An excellent way to flush out plaque and debris from hard-to-reach areas. At Jones Family Orthodontics, we offer Waterpiks at a discounted rate to help patients keep their teeth in top shape.
We provide these tools to all new patients at Jones Family Orthodontics so you can get started on the right foot.
Eat Braces-Friendly Foods
Maintaining good oral hygiene with braces also means making smart food choices. Sticky foods like gummy bears, taffy, and caramel are off-limits, as are chewing gum and ice. These can damage your brackets and wires.
Stick to braces-safe snacks like chocolate and Pirate’s Booty, and remember to cut tougher foods like carrots or apples into small, chewable pieces. This reduces pressure on your braces and helps prevent breakage.
Use a Fluoride Mouthwash
Fluoride mouthwash is a great extra step to help prevent cavities with braces. It strengthens your enamel, making your teeth more resistant to decay. Rinse with fluoride mouthwash for one minute after brushing and flossing—especially before bed.
Keep Up with Orthodontic Appointments
Routine visits are a key part of oral hygiene with braces. Every eight weeks or so, Dr. Jones will adjust your braces and monitor your oral hygiene. These checkups help catch any issues early and ensure your treatment stays on track.
If you’ve got questions or need more tips about keeping your teeth and gums healthy while undergoing orthodontic treatment and how to get a straight, healthy, beautiful smile, contact Jones Family Orthodontics. Request a complimentary consultation online or call us at (360) 863-0303.
