Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment

Why Oral Hygiene Matters

Consistent oral hygiene helps your treatment progress as planned and protects the investment you are making in your smile. Without proper care, patients are at higher risk of:

• Plaque buildup and cavities around brackets, wires, or appliances
• Gum inflammation or gum disease
• Permanent white spots on the teeth once treatment is complete
• Delays to treatment if oral health issues need to be addressed first

Caring for Your Teeth with Braces

Step-by-Step Brushing Routine

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
• Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to clean above and below each bracket
• Brush each tooth individually, working carefully around the wires and brackets
• Spend at least two minutes brushing, paying extra attention to hard-to-reach areas

Flossing With Braces

• Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to get between teeth
• A water flosser can make flossing easier and more thorough

Additional Tips

• Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen enamel
• Use a small interdental brush to clean around brackets and wires
• Check your teeth in the mirror after brushing to make sure nothing was missed

Caring for Your Aligners and Invisalign

Angel Aligner and Invisalign make daily oral hygiene simple, since your regular brushing and flossing routine stays largely the same.

Brushing Routine

• Brush twice a day and floss once a day as usual
• Pay close attention to your gumline around attachments to prevent buildup

Caring for Your Aligners

• Rinse aligners with lukewarm water each time you remove them
• Brush aligners gently at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush and regular toothpaste
• Use an ultrasonic cleaner to keep them extra clean

Additional Tips

• Store aligners in their case whenever they are not in your mouth
• Never place your aligners in boiling water to clean them, as it will warp the plastic

Caring for Your Appliances

Brushing Routine

• Brush as usual, with extra attention around the appliance itself
• Use an interdental or proxy brush to clean under wires and around the appliance
• Do not forget to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth

Flossing With Appliances

• Floss carefully around the appliance, using a threader if needed

Additional Tips

• Rinse thoroughly after brushing to remove any trapped food
• A water flosser can help reach tricky spots around the appliance

Common Oral Hygiene Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping flossing because it feels difficult or time-consuming with braces
• Brushing too quickly and missing areas around brackets or under wires
• Forgetting to clean aligners before putting them back in
• Eating or drinking anything other than water with aligners in place
• Not replacing your toothbrush as often as needed during treatment
• Skipping regular dental cleanings while undergoing orthodontic treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I am brushing well enough with braces?

After brushing, check your teeth in the mirror for any visible plaque or food debris around your brackets and along the gumline. If your gums bleed regularly or you notice white spots forming, let our team know at your next visit so we can review your technique together.

What should I do if my gums feel sore or swollen?

Mild gum irritation can happen as your mouth adjusts to braces or an appliance, and often improves with consistent brushing and flossing. If soreness or swelling continues or worsens, contact our office so we can take a closer look.

Do I need to clean my aligners every time I remove them?

Yes. Rinsing and brushing your aligners each time you take them out helps prevent buildup, odor, and staining, and keeps them clear and comfortable to wear.

The MacKenzie Orthodontics Difference

At MacKenzie Orthodontics, every patient gets a rechargeable electric toothbrush to use during their treatment. Studies show that electric toothbrushes are better for orthodontic patients than regular toothbrushes.

Our role goes beyond straightening your teeth, we are here to help you keep them healthy along the way. We provide personalized guidance and the right tools for your treatment, and we check in on your oral hygiene at every appointment throughout your care.

Need More Tips?

Keeping your teeth healthy during orthodontic treatment does not need to be complicated. If you have questions or would like personalized guidance, our team is happy to help at your next appointment.

MacKenzie Orthodontics supports patients in Saint John, Quispamsis, Rothesay, and St. Stephen, New Brunswick, as well as families from Northern Maine, in maintaining healthy smiles throughout orthodontic treatment. Contact us with any questions about caring for your braces, appliance, or aligners.