Getting braces is an exciting step towards achieving a healthy, happy smile.

Maintaining good oral hygiene with braces, however, can be challenging. The brackets and wires create additional nooks and crannies where food particles and plaque can accumulate, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

But not to worry! With the right techniques and tools, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.

Let’s explore.

The Challenges

So why is oral hygiene more challenging with braces?

  1. More surfaces for plaque to accumulate: Brackets and wires create additional surfaces where bacteria can thrive.
  2. Difficulty in cleaning: Traditional brushing and flossing techniques may not reach all areas effectively.
  3. Increased risk of decay: Food particles trapped around braces can lead to accelerated tooth decay if not removed promptly.
  4. Potential for gum inflammation: Poor cleaning can result in gingivitis or more severe gum problems.

Now that we understand the challenges, let’s explore how to overcome them.

Essential Oral Hygiene Practices for Braces Wearers

1. Brushing Techniques

Proper brushing is the cornerstone of good oral hygiene, especially with braces. Here’s how to do it effectively:

  • Brush after every meal: This helps remove food particles before they can cause damage.
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Hard bristles can damage your gums and braces.
  • Angle your brush: Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and brush in small, circular motions.
  • Clean all surfaces: Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of your teeth.
  • Pay extra attention to the areas around brackets: Use gentle back-and-forth motions to clean around each bracket.
  • Don’t rush: Spend at least two minutes brushing each time.

2. Flossing with Braces

Flossing becomes more challenging but even more critical with braces. Here’s how to floss effectively:

  • Use a floss threader: This tool helps you thread floss behind the wires.
  • Waxed floss: It’s less likely to snag on your braces.
  • Be gentle: Avoid snapping the floss, as this can damage your gums.
  • Clean between each tooth: Gently slide the floss up and down the sides of each tooth.
  • Floss at least once a day: Preferably before bedtime.

3. Interdental Brushes

Interdental brushes are small, specially designed brushes that can clean between teeth and around braces more effectively than regular brushes.

  • Choose the right size: Your orthodontist can recommend the appropriate size for your braces.
  • Use them daily: These brushes are excellent for removing food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas.
  • Be gentle: Insert the brush carefully between teeth and around brackets.

4. Water Flossers

Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators, can be a game-changer for people with braces.

  • Effective cleaning: The pressurised water stream can dislodge food particles and plaque from around brackets and between teeth.
  • Gentle on gums: Water flossers are less likely to irritate sensitive gums.
  • Use daily: For best results, use a water flosser once a day, ideally before bedtime.

5. Mouthwash

An antimicrobial mouthwash can provide additional protection against bacteria and freshen your breath.

  • Choose alcohol-free: Alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out your mouth and irritate your gums.
  • Look for fluoride: Fluoride mouthwashes can help strengthen your teeth.
  • Use as directed: Usually, this means rinsing for 30 seconds to 1 minute after brushing and flossing.

Diet and Lifestyle

Maintaining good oral hygiene with braces isn’t just about cleaning—it’s also about making smart choices in your diet and lifestyle.

Foods to Avoid

Some foods can damage your braces or get stuck easily, making hygiene more difficult:

  • Hard sweets and nuts
  • Sticky foods like toffee or chewing gum
  • Crunchy snacks like popcorn or crisps
  • Chewy foods like bagels or tough meats

Foods to Embrace

Focus on softer foods that are less likely to damage your braces or get stuck:

  • Soft fruits and vegetables
  • Soups and smoothies
  • Whole grains in soft forms (e.g., porridge)

Drink Wisely

What you drink can also affect your oral health:

  • Water is best: It helps rinse your mouth and doesn’t contain sugars or acids.
  • Limit sugary and acidic drinks: Fizzy drinks, sports drinks, and even fruit juices can contribute to tooth decay.
  • Use a straw: When you do drink sugary beverages, using a straw can help minimise contact with your teeth.

Regular Check-ups and Professional Cleanings

Even with excellent home care, regular visits to your orthodontist and dentist are crucial:

  • Attend all scheduled orthodontist appointments: Your orthodontist will check your progress and make necessary adjustments.
  • Don’t skip dental cleanings: Your dentist can perform professional cleanings and check for any developing issues.
  • Be proactive: If you notice any problems (e.g., loose brackets, irritation), contact your orthodontist promptly.

Dealing with Common Issues

Despite your best efforts, you might encounter some challenges:

  • Sore teeth or gums: This is normal, especially after adjustments. Rinse with warm salt water for relief.
  • Mouth ulcers: Apply orthodontic wax to brackets that might be irritating your cheeks or lips.
  • Bad breath: This could be a sign of inadequate cleaning. Review and improve your hygiene routine.

The Long-Term Benefits

Maintaining good oral hygiene with braces requires extra effort, but the rewards are significant:

  1. Reduced risk of decay and gum disease: Proper care prevents long-term dental health issues.
  2. Better treatment outcomes: Good hygiene can lead to more effective and possibly shorter orthodontic treatment.
  3. Healthy habits for life: The skills you learn now will benefit your oral health long after your braces come off.
  4. A beautiful, healthy smile: Your efforts will pay off with a straight, clean, and healthy smile you’ll be proud to show off.

Final Thoughts

Wearing braces is a significant investment in your oral health and appearance. By following these guidelines for maintaining good oral hygiene, you’re ensuring that investment pays off with a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.

Remember, consistency is key—make these practices a part of your daily routine, and you’ll be well on your way to excellent oral health during and after your orthodontic treatment. If you ever have questions or concerns about caring for your braces, don’t hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist or dentist. They’re there to support you on your journey to a healthier, more confident smile.

If you have any questions about orthodontics, or to book a consultation, don’t hesitate to contact Simply Dental at 0800 123 343 or book online here. We’re here to help you achieve and maintain the beautiful, confident smile you deserve.