Wearing braces is an important step toward achieving a straighter, healthier smile—but it also comes with new responsibilities. Brackets, wires, and elastics create extra nooks and crannies where food particles and plaque can easily hide. Without proper care, this buildup can lead to cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and even permanent white spots on the teeth after braces come off. The good news? With the right routine and tools, maintaining excellent oral hygiene with braces is completely achievable.

Below are orthodontists Fort Mill-recommended tips to help you protect your teeth and gums throughout your orthodontic treatment.

Why Oral Hygiene Matters More with Braces

Braces make cleaning your teeth more challenging because they obstruct the smooth surfaces that are usually easy to brush. Plaque can accumulate around brackets and along the gumline, increasing the risk of:

• Tooth decay and cavities

• Gingivitis (inflamed or bleeding gums)

• Enamel demineralization (white spots)

• Persistent bad breath

Poor oral hygiene can also slow your orthodontic progress. Swollen gums may make adjustments uncomfortable, and untreated dental issues can delay treatment. Maintaining cleanliness isn’t just about appearance—it directly affects the success of your braces.

Brush After Every Meal (Yes, Every Meal)

Orthodontists strongly recommend brushing after every meal when you have braces. Food particles can easily get trapped in brackets and wires, and letting them sit increases bacterial growth.

Brushing tips for braces:

• Use a soft-bristled or orthodontic toothbrush

• Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to clean above and below brackets

• Brush gently in small circular motions

• Don’t forget the gumline and chewing surfaces

• Brush for at least two minutes

If brushing immediately isn’t possible, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water until you can brush properly.

Choose the Right Toothbrush

The right toothbrush makes a big difference when you have braces. Orthodontists often recommend:

• Orthodontic toothbrushes with V-shaped bristles

• Electric toothbrushes, which can be more effective at removing plaque

• Interdental brushes to clean around brackets and wires

Electric toothbrushes with pressure sensors are especially helpful, as they prevent aggressive brushing that can damage enamel or gums.

Don’t Skip Flossing—Use Braces-Friendly Tools

Flossing with braces can feel frustrating, but it’s absolutely essential. Regular floss helps remove plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.

Helpful flossing tools include:

• Floss threaders

• Orthodontic floss

• Water flossers (oral irrigators)

Water flossers are particularly popular because they’re easy to use and highly effective for braces wearers. While they don’t replace traditional floss entirely, they’re an excellent addition to your routine.

Rinse with a Fluoride Mouthwash

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities—something braces wearers need more than ever. Using a fluoride mouthwash once or twice daily can provide extra protection against decay.

Look for an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid dryness or irritation, especially if your gums are sensitive during treatment.

Watch What You Eat

Diet plays a crucial role in oral hygiene with braces. Certain foods not only damage braces but also increase the risk of plaque buildup.

Foods to avoid:

• Sticky candies and chewing gum

• Hard foods lik