Oral Hygiene Guide
Your complete guide to maintaining excellent oral health during orthodontic treatment
Why Oral Hygiene Matters During Orthodontic Treatment
Keeping your teeth clean throughout orthodontic treatment is key to getting the best outcome. Good oral care helps avoid decay, protects your gums, and keeps your new smile healthy for years to come.
Prevent Cavities
Proper cleaning removes plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay during treatment.
Healthy Gums
Good hygiene prevents gum inflammation and disease that can affect treatment progress.
Better Results
Clean teeth and healthy gums ensure optimal movement and shorter treatment times.
Essential Oral Hygiene Tools
Using the proper tools is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy throughout orthodontic treatment.
Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Essential for gentle yet effective cleaning around brackets and wires
Fluoride Toothpaste
Helps prevent cavities and strengthens enamel during treatment
Interdental Brush
Perfect for cleaning between brackets and under wires
Water Flosser
Removes plaque and food particles from hard-to-reach areas
Antimicrobial Mouthwash
Reduces bacteria and freshens breath throughout treatment
Orthodontic Wax
Provides relief from bracket irritation and protects soft tissues
Cleaning Your Braces
Follow these step-by-step instructions to keep your braces and teeth sparkling clean.
Rinse Before Brushing
Rinse with water to remove loose food particles and debris
Brush at 45-Degree Angle
Angle your toothbrush to clean above, below, and around each bracket
Use Circular Motions
Gently brush in small circular motions for 2-3 minutes
Clean Between Brackets
Use an interdental brush to clean between brackets and wires
Floss with Threader
Use a floss threader to get under the wire and between teeth
Rinse with Mouthwash
Finish with an antimicrobial mouthwash for complete protection
Caring for Your Clear Aligners & Invisalign
Keep your aligners clean and your teeth healthy with these simple steps.
Remove Aligners
Always remove aligners before eating, drinking, or cleaning
Brush Teeth Normally
Brush and floss your teeth as you normally would
Clean Aligners & Invisalign
Rinse aligners with lukewarm water and brush gently
Use Cleaning Crystals
Soak aligners in cleaning solution or crystals as recommended
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse aligners thoroughly before putting them back in
Reinsert Aligners
Make sure aligners are properly seated on all teeth
Common Issues & Solutions
Don’t worry if you encounter these common issues. Here’s how to address them quickly and effectively.
Food Stuck in Braces
Use an interdental brush or water flosser to gently remove debris. Never use sharp objects.
White Spots on Teeth
These are early signs of decay. Increase fluoride use and improve cleaning technique.
Swollen or Bleeding Gums
Sign of gingivitis. Improve brushing technique and use antimicrobial mouthwash.
Bad Breath
Usually caused by poor cleaning. Increase brushing frequency and use tongue scraper.
Pro Tips for Success
Expert advice from our orthodontists to help you maintain optimal oral health.
Brush after every meal and snack to prevent plaque buildup
Electric toothbrushes can be more effective at removing plaque
Schedule regular cleanings every 3-4 months during treatment
Use a mirror to check that you've cleaned all areas thoroughly
Common Issues & Solutions
Protecting your braces and teeth means avoiding foods that can cause damage or get stuck.
Hard Foods
Sticky Foods
Need Help with Your Oral Hygiene?
Our team is here to help you maintain excellent oral health throughout your treatment. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.