Why Oral Hygiene Matters
Good oral hygiene is crucial for healthy teeth, gums, and successful orthodontic treatment. Braces and Invisalign aligners trap food and plaque, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, or white spots if not properly cleaned. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene ensures your treatment stays on track and your smile stays beautiful for a lifetime.
At Milnor Orthodontics, we educate every patient on brushing and flossing from day one, and we provide ongoing guidance during follow-ups to make sure your oral care routine is effective and easy to follow.
Brushing Tips for Braces
Brush at least twice a day for two minutes—morning and before bed. Timing yourself ensures you get a thorough clean.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush with an orthodontic head. Electric brushes provide more strokes per minute, helping remove plaque more efficiently.
Angle your brush carefully: Hold it at a 45° angle to your gums and brush above and below the brackets. Don’t forget the chewing surfaces and the inside of your teeth.
Flossing With Braces
Flossing is essential to clean between teeth and under wires.
- Use floss threaders or orthodontic floss to get under the archwire.
- Floss once daily, preferably before bedtime.
- If you prefer, try pre-threaded orthodontic floss; it makes the process quicker and easier for kids and adults.
Tips for Invisalign Users
- Remove aligners to brush and floss before reinserting them.
- Clean aligners daily using a soft toothbrush or Invisalign cleaning crystals.
- Store aligners in their protective case when not in use to avoid bacteria and loss.
Helpful Tools
Waterpik/Oral Irrigator – Excellent for flushing out food trapped between braces. Should be used alongside flossing.
Interdental Brushes – Small brushes perfect for cleaning around brackets and wires.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can damage braces or stick to aligners, making cleaning difficult:
- Hard foods: nuts, ice, hard candy
- Sticky foods: gum, caramel, chewy candy
- Sugary foods: frequent consumption can cause decay
Encourage children to choose braces-friendly snacks like soft fruits, cheese, yogurt, or cut-up veggies.
When to Ask for Help
We understand brushing and flossing with braces or aligners can be tricky at first. Our team is always ready to demonstrate proper technique or recommend tools that make cleaning easier.
Don’t hesitate to ask:
- If your gums are bleeding or sore
- If plaque is building up around brackets
- If your child struggles with flossing
We’ll guide you with step-by-step instructions and personalized advice to ensure success.
Key Takeaway
Maintaining oral hygiene with braces or Invisalign doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, proper techniques, and consistent habits, you can protect your teeth, gums, and orthodontic investment while achieving a beautiful, lasting smile.
Call us at 970-484-3214 if you have questions or need a hands-on demonstration!
