You already know that maintaining good oral hygiene is important for everyone, but it's even more critical when you're having orthodontic treatment. While braces and clear aligners are great for correcting misaligned teeth, they're also good at trapping food particles.Â
Keeping your teeth and oral appliances clean can be challenging, but you can do it! Dr. Bryan Johnson is a board-certified orthodontist with years of experience. He’ll help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile throughout your treatment at Bigfoot Orthodontics, with offices in Salem, Silverton, Stayton, and Woodburn, Oregon.Â
What Is Plaque & Why Is It So Bad for Your Teeth?
Food that gets stuck on your teeth can lead to plaque buildup — a thin coating of microorganisms and debris containing potentially harmful bacteria.Â
These bacteria digest sugar and create acid that can erode teeth and irritate gums, causing cavities, white spots on teeth, gum disease, and bad breath. Unfortunately, braces or other appliances make plaque even harder to remove.
Keeping plaque under control is one of the best ways to have strong, healthy teeth and gums. There are three main ways to do it: through diet, hygiene, and dental care. All together, they are your mouth's best defense.
What Not to Eat During Your Orthodontic Treatment
To protect your teeth and oral appliances, you’ll want to avoid foods that could increase your risk of developing tooth decay. That means cutting down or eliminating as many sugary foods as you can.Â
Hard or very sticky foods can also physically damage your orthodontic appliance. Broken braces or retainers won’t be able to straighten your teeth!Â
Especially while you have an orthodontic appliance, you should steer clear of foods like:
- Soda
- Sweets
- Ice Cream
- Toffee
- Gum
- Licorice
- Caramels
- Hard candiesÂ
- Nuts
- Beef jerky
- Hard pizza crust
We still encourage you to eat healthy foods like carrots and apples. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces first. And don't chew on ice, pencils, or your nails: these habits can damage your appliances and even chip your teeth!Â
Daily Orthodontic Hygiene Tips
Brushing and flossing will keep your smile healthy during orthodontic treatment. That said, it can be tricky to clean your teeth around an appliance’s brackets and wires. Here are some quick tips to make it easier:
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle or bi-level toothbrush. An electric toothbrush on a moderate setting can also help.
- Use an interdental brush (like a proxabrush) to clean around brackets, wires, and hard-to-reach spots.
- Floss daily. Floss threaders and special floss make cleaning between wires and your gum line easier.
- Consider fluoride treatments or an antiseptic rinse if recommended to prevent cavities and ease gum irritation.
- Clean your retainer daily with a toothbrush. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic.
If you need help with your technique, don’t hesitate to ask our team!
Supplement Your Orthodontic Treatment With Professional Dental Care
Even though you're seeing an orthodontist, you should still be sure to see your dentist regularly. It's just as important as ever! While orthodontists focus on improving your bite and alignment, your dentist will keep your teeth healthy with examinations, cleanings, and preventive care.Â
Your treatment is a team effort, and everyone – our office, you, and your family dentist – has an important role. We all share the same goal: giving you a winning smile!
Why Choose Bigfoot Orthodontics?
At Bigfoot Orthodontics, we’ve been committed to providing exceptional orthodontic care in the Willamette Valley since 1996. Under the leadership of Dr. Bryan Johnson, a board-certified orthodontist, our practice combines years of expertise with a friendly, patient-centered approach. With four convenient locations in Salem, Stayton, Silverton, and Woodburn, we make it easy to get the care you need.
Our name is inspired by the Great Pacific Northwest and reflects our passion for creating a vibrant, welcoming environment for every patient. Dr. Johnson and the Bigfoot Orthodontics team want you to have a healthy, beautiful smile you can show off with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Types of Toothbrushes Are Best for Cleaning Around Braces or Aligners?
A soft-bristle or bi-level toothbrush works best for cleaning around braces or aligners. Bi-level brushes have longer bristles on the edges to help reach tricky spots. You can also use an electric toothbrush on a moderate setting to help remove plaque successfully.
Can I Use Mouthwash While Wearing Braces or Aligners?
Absolutely. Antibacterial mouthwash can reduce plaque and bacteria in areas that are harder to reach with brushing alone. A fluoride rinse may also be recommended to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.
How Can I Prevent White Spots From Forming on My Teeth During Treatment?
To prevent white spots, make sure to brush thoroughly twice a day, floss daily, and use an interdental brush to clean around brackets and wires. Using fluoride toothpaste or a fluoride rinse can also help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decalcification, which causes white spots.
How Often Should I Schedule Professional Cleanings During Orthodontic Treatment?
It’s recommended to schedule professional cleanings with your dentist every six months during orthodontic treatment. Regular cleanings remove plaque buildup and maintain healthy teeth and gums, even while you're wearing braces or aligners.
Keep Your Smile Healthy During Orthodontic Treatment and After!
A great oral hygiene routine will protect your smile while you undergo orthodontic treatment. With a little extra care and the right tools, you can keep your teeth happy and your treatment on track.Â
If you have any questions about your oral hygiene routine or need advice on the best products to use, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call Bigfoot Orthodontics at 503-362-9548 for more information or to schedule your initial orthodontics appointment in Salem, Silverton, Stayton, or Woodburn, Oregon.Â