Fresh Breath with Braces: Oral Hygiene Tips

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Greenberg Orthodontics & TMJ

A bright, beautiful smile is often achieved with braces. The time you spend wearing braces is an investment in the good health and appearance of your smile. However, Dr. Vickie Greenberg and our staff know that having braces on your teeth can pose challenges. Many of these challenges are commonly faced by all who wear braces, such as flossing, getting food stuck in your braces, and bad breath.

Today, let's address bad breath and what to do about it. There's no reason you have to shy away from conversation for fear that you've got bad breath.

Why Bad Breath Happens with Braces

Understanding the causes helps prevent the problem:

• Food particles get trapped more easily in brackets and wires
• Bacteria buildup increases in hard-to-clean areas
• Plaque accumulation around braces creates odor-causing compounds
• Dry mouth from mouth breathing reduces natural bacteria-fighting saliva

Fresh Breath Tips for Braces Wearers

Diet and Hydration

• Eat a healthy diet - Unhealthy foods that are laden with sugar can contribute to bad breath. Stick with healthy produce, protein, grains, and dairy found on the list of foods your orthodontist says are safe to eat with braces.
• Drink non-sugary beverages - Steer clear of sugary sodas and juices as they contribute to bad breath and tooth decay.
• Stay hydrated - A mouth that's continually dry can lead to bad breath by inhibiting your production of saliva. Regular production of saliva removes bacteria and excess food from your mouth, both of which cause bad breath.

Daily Oral Hygiene Routine

• Brush often - Brush your teeth and tongue first thing in the morning, after each meal and snack, and before you go to bed, to remove food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath.
• Don't forget to floss - Flossing with braces might seem tricky, but it is a necessity. Ask Dr. Vickie Greenberg to show you the best way to floss effectively with braces.
• Use recommended mouthwash - Use the mouthwash recommended by Dr. Vickie Greenberg. For the best results, swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for 30 seconds.
• Clean your tongue - Use a tongue scraper or brush your tongue to remove bacteria that cause odor.

Professional Care and Maintenance

Regular dental exams and cleanings are more important when you have braces. Cavities can delay your treatment progress, so be sure to visit your dentist every six months. Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that you can't reach with home care alone.

Additional Tips for Success

• Carry a travel toothbrush for cleaning after meals away from home
• Use orthodontic wax to prevent irritation that can lead to mouth breathing
• Replace your toothbrush regularly - every 3 months or sooner if bristles fray
• Consider a water flosser to help remove food particles from hard-to-reach areas

Practice Good Hygiene Daily

Good oral hygiene practices are important every day, whether you wear braces or not. But they become even more important during the months you wear braces. In addition to your regular orthodontic checkups, see your general dentist for cleanings and exams.

Together, you and our Altadena, CA team will keep your mouth healthy and fresh during and after your orthodontic treatment. If you have questions about maintaining fresh breath with braces, contact our office for personalized guidance.