At Truly Yours Orthodontics, we are passionate about helping you achieve a confident, radiant smile. But a truly beautiful smile is also a healthy one. If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is more important than ever. Let’s explore why it matters and how to keep your smile in top shape throughout your orthodontic journey.

 

Why Oral Hygiene Is Essential During Treatment

 

Orthodontic appliances create small spaces that can trap food particles and plaque, allowing bacteria to build up more easily. Without proper care, this can lead to:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Staining or white spots on teeth
• Bad breath
• Delays in treatment progress

Whether you are wearing braces or clear aligners, protecting your oral health is key to achieving the best possible results.

 

Oral Hygiene Tips for Braces

 

Brushing and flossing with braces takes more time and attention, but it is well worth the effort. Here are our recommendations:

1. Brush After Every Meal

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush thoroughly around each bracket, under the wires, and along the gumline.

2. Floss Daily

Flossing with braces can be tricky, but floss threaders or orthodontic flossers make it easier to clean between your teeth.

3. Use Interdental Brushes or a Water Flosser

These tools are great for reaching areas around brackets and wires where regular brushing may miss.

4. Avoid Certain Foods

Sticky, chewy, or hard foods such as caramel, gum, popcorn, and nuts can damage your braces and contribute to plaque buildup.

5. Rinse with Fluoride

A fluoride mouthwash can help strengthen your enamel and protect against cavities while you are in treatment.

 

Oral Hygiene Tips for Clear Aligners

 

Although aligners are removable, they still require consistent care and attention.

1. Brush and Floss Before Wearing Aligners

Always clean your teeth before putting your aligners back in to avoid trapping food and plaque between your teeth and the trays.

2. Clean Your Aligners Daily

Rinse your aligners with water and use a clear, unscented antibacterial soap or aligner cleaning solution. Do not use toothpaste, as it can scratch the material.

3. Remove Aligners When Eating

Remove them for all meals to avoid staining and bacterial buildup.

 

We Are Here to Support You

 

At Truly Yours Orthodontics, we do more than straighten teeth. We partner with you to create a smile that is not only beautiful but also healthy. During each visit, we check on your oral hygiene and provide personalized guidance if needed.

Your smile reflects your overall health, and we are committed to making your orthodontic journey smooth, supportive, and truly exceptional.

Have questions about oral hygiene during treatment?

We are always here to help. Reach out to us or ask during your next visit.