Having braces can be fun and exciting as you see the changes during orthodontic treatment. Braces can also come with some struggles, such as making sure your oral hygiene is on point so you don't end up with bad breath. While having braces, food particles may be trapped under the wire and around the brackets. This can cause issues if you do not maintain good oral hygiene. Tips on keeping fresh breath while braces are:
1.Maintain a consistent brushing routine: Brushing your teeth with braces is very important. You need to make sure to brush after every meal, even snacks. This removes the food particles that get stuck under the wire and around the brackets. Flossing will also keep the plaque off your teeth which can cause bad breath if not removed. Always keep a travel toothbrush kit on hand, whether in your backpack, car, locker, etc.
2.Dont forget to floss: Many times people forget to floss when they have braces or they just don't try because it is time consuming. It's very important to use the floss threaders to floss after every meal and at wake up/bedtime. Flossing helps remove food particles that may be caught in between teeth that cannot be removed with just brushing.
3.Use mouthwash: Make sure to add mouthwash into your brushing routine, this will kill any germs in your mouth and give you nice fresh breath. A mouthwash that contains fluoride is best to help strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities!
4. Hydration: Drinking a lot of water is key to prevent dry mouth which can cause bad breath. Keeping hydrated throughout the day also helps wash away any particles stuck in your braces. It is a good idea to carry a water bottle with you as a reminder to stay hydrated.
5.Brush orthodontic appliances: If you have an orthodontic appliance in addition to the braces, make sure it is brushed as well! If you have an appliance is glued into your mouth, give it a good brush in case any food is trapped there. If you have a removable appliance, make sure to brush it with your toothbrush and toothpaste to remove any bacteria and prevent any odors.