If you’re wearing braces or thinking about getting them, you might be feeling a little nervous about how to care for your teeth. That anxiety is completely normal. But don’t worry—I’m here to walk you through it in a way that’s simple, supportive, and stress-free. Keeping up with oral hygiene with braces doesn’t have to be hard. You just need a game plan and the right tools. Let me help you feel confident about taking care of your teeth during orthodontic treatment.
Why Is It So Hard to Clean Your Teeth with Braces?
Braces can make it tricky to clean your teeth because they create little hiding spots for food and plaque. These spots are hard to reach with a regular toothbrush. If left behind, that buildup can lead to cavities, irritated gums, and bad breath. The good news? With a few smart habits and tools, like the right toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, you can keep your smile fresh and healthy while you’re in treatment.
What Toothbrush Should I Use with Braces?
Let’s talk toothbrushes for a minute. I get asked this all the time—”Dr. Sutera, which toothbrush should I use with braces?” And I totally get it. With so many choices out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But the truth is, the right toothbrush can make a big difference in how clean and healthy your teeth stay while you’re in braces. Think of it less like a chore and more like a tool that’s going to help protect that future smile.
So let’s break it down together—here’s what really works for oral hygiene with braces:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your enamel or brackets.
- Angle your brush at 45 degrees to reach under wires and around brackets.
- Consider an electric toothbrush with a small, round head—these can remove more plaque.
I always recommend brushing after every meal. Food stuck in braces can start turning into acid in just 20 minutes.
Use fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen enamel. And if you’re not sure you’re cleaning everything, disclosing tablets can help you spot missed areas.
How Do I Floss with Braces Without Losing My Mind?
I won’t sugarcoat it—flossing with braces isn’t the quickest part of your routine. But here’s the good news: it’s 100% doable. And honestly, once you find the tools that work best for you, oral hygiene with braces becomes way less stressful. Let me show you a few ways to make it easier:
- Use waxed floss so it slides more easily.
- Try floss threaders or SuperFloss® to get under the wires.
- Wrap the floss in a C-shape around the tooth to clean thoroughly.
- Struggling? Interdental brushes can be a great alternative.
The key for hygiene with braces is patience and routine. Once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature.
What Foods Should I Avoid with Braces?
Let’s talk food. I know—this is the part nobody wants to hear. But here’s the deal: what you eat really matters when you have braces. Some foods can break your brackets, others can get wedged in places your brush won’t reach. And I get it, avoiding favorite snacks isn’t always fun. But making smart choices can save you from broken hardware, emergency visits, or even cavities.
So what should you skip—and what can you enjoy instead?
Avoid these foods:
- Hard items like nuts, popcorn, and hard candies
- Sticky treats like caramel, gum, or taffy
- Sugary or acidic drinks like soda and sports drinks
Better choices include:
- Soft foods like yogurt, pasta, and steamed veggies
- Lean meats and soft fruits cut into small pieces
- Dairy products to strengthen your teeth
Sipping water after meals helps wash away food particles and acids.
Can Braces Cause Gum Disease?
Here’s something we see often—braces create little nooks around the gumline where plaque loves to hang out. And when that sticky stuff builds up, it can irritate your gums. We’re talking redness, swelling, and sometimes bleeding when you brush. If it’s not handled early, that irritation can turn into gum disease. But don’t worry, with the right care, we can stop it before it starts.
To keep your gums healthy:
- Use antimicrobial mouthwash like chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride
- Massage your gums with a soft toothbrush
- Schedule cleanings at least every 6 months—or more often if we recommend it
If your gums ever feel swollen, red, or bleed often, give us a call. It’s easier to fix early.
What Else Can Help My Braces Feel More Comfortable?
Let’s be honest—braces aren’t always comfortable. Those wires and brackets? They can rub your cheeks and lips the wrong way, especially when you’re just starting out or after an adjustment. I hear this a lot from my patients, and I totally get it. But don’t worry, there are a few easy hygiene with braces tricks that can really help soothe the soreness and make wearing braces feel a lot better. Here’s what I recommend:
- Orthodontic wax helps cover sharp edges
- Stay hydrated to keep saliva flowing—it’s your mouth’s natural defense
- Use sugar-free gum (if your orthodontist says it’s okay) to help with saliva
For patients at higher risk of cavities, we may also suggest fluoride treatments or a prescription toothpaste.
When Should I Visit the Dentist While Wearing Braces?
This is something a lot of patients are surprised to hear—just because you’re seeing your orthodontist often doesn’t mean you can skip the dentist. Think of it this way: your orthodontist is focused on moving your teeth into place, while your dentist is making sure those teeth and gums stay healthy during the process. So yes, you still need regular cleanings and checkups, even with braces!
Plan to visit every 3 to 6 months. These visits help us catch small issues before they become big problems.
And if you’re someone who gets anxious about dental visits, talk to us. At Aesthetic Smile Reconstruction, we offer sedation dentistry to make your visits relaxed and comfortable.
Final Thoughts: You Can Totally Do This
Having braces is a journey. And yes, it takes a little more effort to keep your mouth clean. But you’re not alone. With a solid routine and some support, you can protect your teeth and gums while creating a beautiful smile.
Remember, you’re not just straightening teeth—you’re building lifelong oral health with braces.
Need help or have questions? We’re here for you. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just want a more comfortable dental experience, let’s talk.
Schedule an appointment with Doctor Sutera at Aesthetic Smile Reconstruction and let us help you feel confident every step of the way.
Braces & Oral Health: Quick FAQ
1. How do I brush with braces?
Use a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush. Angle at 45 degrees to reach around brackets. Brush after every meal!
2. What toothpaste should I use?
Fluoride toothpaste is your best friend. It helps strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
3. Is flossing even possible with braces?
Yes! Use floss threaders, SuperFloss®, or interdental brushes to make it easier.
4. What foods should I avoid?
Skip hard, sticky, and crunchy foods (popcorn, nuts, caramel). Choose soft foods like yogurt, pasta, and steamed veggies.
5. Why do my gums feel swollen?
Plaque buildup causes irritation. Keep brushing gently, use mouthwash, and see your dentist regularly.
6. Do I still need dental checkups during braces?
Absolutely. Your orthodontist moves your teeth—we make sure your teeth and gums stay healthy.
7. How can I make braces more comfortable?
Orthodontic wax, hydration, and sugar-free gum (if approved) can help ease soreness and irritation.
