Top 10 Tips for Maintaining Fresh Breath While Wearing Braces
If you are wearing braces, you might find that it can be difficult to maintain fresh breath. Food particles can easily become trapped in the braces, causing bad breath. However, by following these top 10 tips, you can maintain fresh breath while wearing braces.
1. Brush Your Teeth and Braces Regularly
Brushing your teeth and braces regularly is the most important step to maintaining fresh breath. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, and after each meal if possible. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and braces thoroughly.
2. Use an Interdental Brush
An interdental brush is a small brush that can be used to clean between the teeth and around the braces. It can be particularly useful for removing food particles that have become stuck in hard-to-reach areas.
3. Floss Daily
Flossing can be difficult when you have braces, but it is essential for maintaining fresh breath. You can use a floss threader to make flossing easier, or try a water flosser for a more effective clean.
4. Rinse with Mouthwash
Using a mouthwash can help to kill bacteria that cause bad breath. Look for a mouthwash that is specifically designed for people with braces, as it will be more effective at removing food particles.
5. Avoid Sugary and Starchy Foods
Sugary and starchy foods can easily become trapped in your braces, leading to bad breath. Try to avoid these foods, or at least limit your intake.
6. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water can help to flush food particles out of your mouth and keep your breath fresh. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
7. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum can help to stimulate saliva production, which can help to flush food particles out of your mouth. Look for a gum that contains xylitol, as this can help to prevent tooth decay.
8. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and alcohol can both cause bad breath, so it is best to avoid them if possible. If you do smoke or drink, make sure to rinse your mouth out with water afterwards.
9. Visit Your Orthodontist Regularly
Regular check-ups with your orthodontist can help to ensure that your braces are working correctly and that your teeth are healthy. Your orthodontist can also give you advice on how to maintain fresh breath.
10. Clean Your Retainer
If you wear a retainer, make sure to clean it regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria. You can use a retainer cleaner or soak it in a solution of water and vinegar.
By following these top 10 tips, you can maintain fresh breath while wearing braces. Remember to brush your teeth and braces regularly, floss daily, rinse with mouthwash, avoid sugary and starchy foods, drink plenty of water, chew sugar-free gum, avoid smoking and alcohol, visit your orthodontist regularly, and clean your retainer.
