Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Braces: Tips from Port City Ortho

Expert Tips to Maintain a Clean and Healthy Smile during Orthodontic Treatment

Table of Contents

Introduction

Why Oral Hygiene Is Critical with Braces

Daily Oral Care Routine for Braces

Flossing with Braces: A Step-by-Step Guide
Mouthwash and Rinsing for Extra Protection

Foods to Avoid with Braces

Invisalign® Care: Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Clear Aligners

Dealing with Braces Discomfort and Sores

Regular Orthodontic Checkups: Why They Matter

Final Thoughts: A Healthier, Brighter Smile

Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

Braces are a fantastic tool for achieving a straight, confident smile. However, maintaining oral hygiene with braces can be challenging. The brackets and wires create more places for food and plaque to hide, increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and staining. At Port City Ortho, our team of top-rated orthodontists—Dr. Bill Gierie, Dr. Gregory Richardson, and Dr. Steven Hancock—are committed to helping you keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your orthodontic journey.

With four convenient locations in Wilmington and Southport, NC, Port City Ortho is recognized as Southeastern North Carolina's inaugural Top 1% Invisalign® Provider, backed by 195+ 5-star Google reviews. Whether wearing traditional braces or Invisalign®, these expert tips will help you maintain optimal oral hygiene during treatment.

Why Oral Hygiene Is Critical with Braces

Braces create small spaces where food and plaque can accumulate, increasing the risk of:

• Cavities – Sugar and food particles trapped around brackets can lead to tooth decay.
• Gum Disease – Poor oral hygiene can cause inflammation, leading to gingivitis or more serious periodontal disease.
• Staining – Uneven discoloration may occur if plaque remains around brackets.
• Bad Breath – Bacteria buildup can cause persistent bad breath.
  
  

Taking the right approach to cleaning your teeth will prevent these issues and ensure a beautiful, healthy smile once your braces come off.

Daily Oral Care Routine for Braces

Brushing Techniques for Braces

Brushing with braces requires extra care and attention. Follow these expert recommendations from Dr. Gierie, Dr. Richardson, and Dr. Hancock:

• Use a soft-bristled or orthodontic toothbrush – A regular toothbrush works, but an orthodontic brush is designed to clean around brackets and wires.
• Brush after every meal – Food easily gets trapped in braces, so brushing at least twice daily and after meals is crucial.
• Use the right technique – Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and brush in circular motions. Be sure to clean the gum line, brackets, and between teeth.
• Electric toothbrushes help – A high-quality electric toothbrush can remove more plaque than manual brushing.
  
  

Choosing the Best Toothpaste

• Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
• Avoid whitening toothpaste, as it can cause uneven coloring when your braces come off.
  
  

Flossing with Braces: A Step-by-Step Guide

Flossing is essential, but braces make it more challenging. Here's how to do it effectively:

Use the Right Floss

• Waxed dental floss – Less likely to shred or get stuck.
• Floss threaders – Help you get floss under wires easily.
• Water flossers (Waterpik®) – A great alternative to traditional flossing, especially for those with sensitive gums.
  
  

How to Floss with Braces

• Thread the floss under the wire using a floss threader.
• Gently move it up and down between your teeth.
• Repeat for each tooth, being careful not to snap the floss against your gums.
• Consider using a water flosser for added ease and efficiency.
  
  

Mouthwash and Rinsing for Extra Protection

A fluoride or antiseptic mouthwash helps keep bacteria at bay and strengthens enamel. Port City Ortho recommends:

• Fluoride mouthwash – Helps prevent cavities and strengthens enamel.
• Antimicrobial rinses – Reduce plaque buildup and freshen breath.
• Saltwater rinses – Soothe irritated gums, especially after adjustments.
  
  

Swish the mouthwash for 30-60 seconds, ensuring it reaches all areas of your mouth, then spit it out.

Foods to Avoid with Braces

Certain foods can damage braces or increase the risk of plaque buildup. Avoid:

• Sticky foods – Caramel, taffy, gum
• Hard foods – Popcorn, nuts, ice
• Crunchy foods – Hard chips, raw carrots, apples (unless cut into small pieces)
• Sugary foods & drinks – Soda, candy, sports drinks (increase the risk of cavities)
  
  

Instead, choose soft, braces-friendly foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soft fruits, and pasta.

Invisalign® Care: Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Clear Aligners

If you're using Invisalign® aligners, the cleaning process is different but just as important:

• Remove aligners before eating to avoid trapping food and bacteria.
• Rinse aligners thoroughly with water before placing them back in your mouth.
• Clean aligners daily using clear, unscented soap and a soft toothbrush (avoid toothpaste, as it can scratch the plastic).
• Brush and floss before reinserting aligners to prevent plaque buildup.
  
  

Since Port City Ortho is a Top 1% Invisalign® Provider, our team can guide you on the best Invisalign® cleaning routine.

Dealing with Braces Discomfort and Sores

Braces can cause minor discomfort, especially after adjustments. Here's how to manage it:

• Orthodontic wax – Apply to brackets or wires that irritate the inside of your mouth.
• Saltwater rinse – Helps heal mouth sores and reduce inflammation.
• Soft foods – Eat yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothies when experiencing soreness.
• Pain relievers – If needed, take over-the-counter medication as directed.
  
  

If discomfort persists, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gierie, Dr. Richardson, or Dr. Hancock.

Regular Orthodontic Checkups: Why They Matter

Routine visits to Port City Ortho are essential for:

• Adjusting wires and brackets
• Monitoring progress
• Checking for oral health issues

Our team is dedicated to making every visit comfortable and informative. With four locations in Wilmington and Southport, we make orthodontic care convenient.

Final Thoughts: A Healthier, Brighter Smile

Braces require extra effort in oral hygiene, but the results are worth it. Following these expert tips from Port City Ortho, you can prevent dental problems and ensure a beautiful, healthy smile once your braces come off.

Ready to Elevate Your Smile?

Book an appointment with Dr. Gierie, Dr. Richardson, or Dr. Hancock today at Port City Ortho!

📞 Call us at:

• Mayfaire: 910-256-8590
• Shipyard: 910-452-7988
• Southport: 910-457-0020

🌐 Visit: portcityorthodontist.com

Frequently Asked Questions 

How often should I brush my teeth with braces?

You should brush twice daily, preferably after every meal, to prevent plaque buildup.

What's the best way to floss with braces?

Use waxed floss with a floss threader or a water flosser for an easier and more effective cleaning.

Can I use a whitening toothpaste with braces?

It's best to avoid whitening toothpaste since it can lead to uneven color when the braces come off.

What foods should I avoid with braces?

Avoid sticky, hard, crunchy, and sugary foods to prevent damage and plaque buildup.

How do I clean my Invisalign® aligners?

Rinse them thoroughly, brush gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, and avoid using toothpaste to prevent scratches.

READY TO ELEVATE YOUR SMILE?