Oral Hygiene Instructions

Proper oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Follow these guidelines to keep your teeth and gums healthy while achieving your beautiful new smile.

Why Oral Hygiene Matters During Treatment

Braces and aligners create additional surfaces where food particles and plaque can accumulate. Without proper cleaning, you risk developing:

Cavities: Tooth decay can develop around brackets and bands
White Spots: Permanent decalcification marks on teeth
Gum Disease: Swollen, bleeding gums and gingivitis
Bad Breath: Caused by bacteria buildup

The good news? These issues are completely preventable with consistent, thorough oral hygiene!

Brushing with Braces

Brush after every meal and snack—at least 3-4 times per day.

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Brush for 2-3 Minutes

Set a timer to ensure thorough cleaning

1

Rinse First

Rinse your mouth with water to loosen food particles.

2

Clean Around Brackets

Angle your brush at 45 degrees and brush above and below each bracket, using small circular motions.

3

Brush All Surfaces

Clean the front, back, and chewing surfaces of all teeth, spending extra time around the gumline.

4

Brush Your Tongue

Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

5

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse well with water and check your braces in the mirror to ensure they're clean.

Recommended Tools

Soft-bristled toothbrush

Fluoride toothpaste

Interdental brush (proxy brush)

Electric toothbrush (optional)

Pro Tips

Replace your toothbrush every 3 months
Keep a travel kit for school or work
Use a timer or play a 2-minute song
Don’t brush too hard—be gentle!

Flossing with Braces

Floss at least once daily—preferably before bedtime.

Flossing Methods

Flossing with braces takes a little extra effort, but it's essential for healthy gums. Choose the method that works best for you:

Method 1: Traditional Floss with Threader

Thread floss through a floss threader
Guide the threader under the wire between two teeth
Remove threader and floss gently between teeth
Repeat for each tooth

Method 2: Orthodontic Floss

Use pre-threaded orthodontic floss picks with a stiff end that easily slides under wires – faster and more convenient than traditional floss.

Method 3: Water Flosser

A water flosser (like Waterpik) uses a stream of water to clean between teeth and around braces. Great supplement to traditional flossing, especially for hard-to-reach areas.

Additional Care Tips

Mouthwash

Rinse with fluoride mouthwash once daily, preferably at bedtime, to strengthen enamel and help prevent cavities.

Look for ADA-approved fluoride mouthwash

Regular Dental Checkups

Continue seeing your general dentist every 6 months for cleanings and checkups throughout your orthodontic treatment.

Be sure to tell them you have braces!

Diet Matters

Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages, which increase cavity risk. If you do indulge, brush soon after.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to rinse away food particles and bacteria, especially after meals.

Oral Hygiene with Invisalign

Invisalign makes oral hygiene easier since you remove the aligners to brush and floss normally. However, it’s crucial to:

Brush and floss after every meal before putting aligners back in

Clean your aligners daily with a soft toothbrush and clear soap

Rinse aligners whenever you remove them

Never eat or drink (except water) with aligners in

Questions About Oral Hygiene?

Our team is happy to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques at any appointment. Don’t hesitate to ask for help!

Contact Us