Getting braces is an exciting step toward a straighter, healthier smile, but keeping your teeth clean during treatment is more important than ever. Brackets and wires create small spaces where food and plaque can get trapped, increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and staining.

At Cooper Orthodontics, we want to make sure your orthodontic journey leads to a healthy, beautiful smile. Here’s how to maintain excellent oral hygiene while wearing braces.

1. Brush Thoroughly & Frequently

With braces, it’s essential to brush after every meal and snack to remove food particles and plaque buildup. Follow these steps for the best results:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush to gently clean around brackets and wires.
• Brush at a 45-degree angle, making sure to reach under the wires and along the gumline.
• Brush for at least two minutes, ensuring all surfaces of your teeth and braces are clean.
• Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.

Pro Tip: Carry a travel toothbrush with you for quick cleanups after meals!

2. Floss Every Day (Yes, Even with Braces!)

Flossing with braces takes extra effort, but it’s essential to remove plaque and food stuck between teeth. Try these tools to make flossing easier:

• Orthodontic floss threaders – Helps you maneuver floss under the wires.
• Water flossers – Uses a stream of water to clean between teeth and around brackets.
• Interdental brushes – Small brushes designed to clean between brackets and hard-to-reach areas.

Pro Tip: Floss at least once a day, preferably before bed, to prevent plaque buildup overnight.

3. Rinse with Mouthwash

Using an antibacterial, fluoride mouthwash helps kill bacteria, strengthen enamel, and reach areas that brushing and flossing might miss.

• Rinse for 30-60 seconds after brushing and flossing.
• Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash to prevent dry mouth.

Pro Tip: Swishing with water after eating can also help rinse away food particles if you can’t brush right away.

4. Watch What You Eat

Certain foods can damage your braces or increase the risk of cavities. Avoid:

• Sticky foods (caramel, gum, taffy) that can get stuck in brackets.
• Hard foods (popcorn, nuts, ice) that can break wires or brackets.
• Sugary foods & drinks (soda, candy, juice) that increase plaque buildup.

Instead, opt for braces-friendly foods like yogurt, soft fruits, steamed vegetables, and pasta.

Pro Tip: If you eat something sugary, brush your teeth as soon as possible to prevent plaque buildup.

5. Keep Up with Orthodontic Checkups

Regular visits to Cooper Orthodontics help keep your treatment on track and ensure your braces stay in great shape. During checkups, we will:

• Adjust your braces to ensure they’re working effectively.
• Check for any broken wires or brackets and repair them if needed.
• Provide tips on improving your oral hygiene routine.

Pro Tip: Keep up with your regular dental cleanings every 6 months to prevent cavities and gum disease.

Protect Your Smile for the Best Results

Maintaining good oral hygiene with braces takes extra effort, but it’s worth it! A clean, healthy mouth will ensure your teeth look amazing once your braces come off.

At Cooper Orthodontics, we’re here to support you throughout your orthodontic journey.