Braces are a major step toward a healthier, more aligned smilebut they also require careful daily care to avoid issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and discoloration. For teens wearing braces, maintaining strong oral hygiene is essential not only for their dental health but also to ensure that the results of orthodontic treatment are as effective and beautiful as possible.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we guide teens and their families through the full braces journey, helping them stay on track with both orthodontic progress and overall dental care. This blog outlines the best practices for keeping your teeth clean and healthy while wearing braces.
Why Oral Hygiene Matters More with Braces
Braces create small spaces and surfaces where food and plaque can collect easily. If not cleaned thoroughly, this buildup can cause:
Cavities around the brackets
Gum inflammation and bleeding
Bad breath
White spots or staining on the enamel
Prolonged treatment time due to complications
A consistent oral care routine helps protect both the teeth and the investment made in orthodontic treatment.
Brushing with Braces: Do It Right
Brushing with braces takes extra care and should be done at least twice a day, preferably after every meal.
Tips for brushing effectively with braces:
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or electric toothbrush designed for orthodontic care
Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to clean above and below the brackets
Brush for two full minutes, focusing on all surfaces including the gumline
Clean each tooth and bracket individually, using circular motions
Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and fight plaque
Replacing your toothbrush or electric brush head every 3 months, or sooner if bristles are worn, helps maintain cleaning effectiveness.
Flossing: Dont Skip It
Flossing is more challenging with braces, but its one of the most important steps for preventing decay and gum problems.
Recommended flossing tools include:
Floss threaders that help guide floss under wires
Orthodontic floss with stiff ends and spongey middles
Water flossers, which spray water between teeth and around brackets to dislodge food and plaque
Teens should aim to floss at least once a day, especially before bed.
Use Orthodontic-Specific Tools
Special tools can help make oral care with braces easier and more effective:
Interdental brushes clean between brackets and hard-to-reach spots
Orthodontic wax soothes irritation from wires or brackets
Mouth mirrors help spot areas that may need extra attention
Fluoride mouthwash provides additional protection and freshness
Creating a dental kit for school, travel, or overnight stays ensures your teen always has the tools they need, even on busy days.
Braces-Friendly Eating Habits
A balanced diet supports oral health, but some foods are known to cause issues with braces.
Avoid:
Sticky items like gum, caramel, and chewy candies
Hard foods such as nuts, ice, popcorn, and hard candies
Crunchy foods unless cut into small pieces (like apples or carrots)
Sugary beverages that contribute to plaque buildup
Instead, choose:
Soft fruits, steamed vegetables, yogurt, smoothies, and cheese
Water over soda or energy drinks
Sugar-free snacks that dont stick to brackets
Eating thoughtfully reduces the risk of bracket damage and decay.
Monitor for Common Problems
Even with good care, some issues may still arise. Heres what to look out for:
Food stuck around brackets: Use a water flosser or interdental brush to clean it
Soreness or irritation: Use orthodontic wax and rinse with warm saltwater
Broken brackets or loose wires: Contact your dentist or orthodontist immediately
White spots on teeth: A sign of enamel decalcification caused by plaque buildup
Prompt action helps prevent minor issues from turning into major ones.
Maintain Regular Dental Check-Ups
Even with frequent orthodontic visits, teens still need to see their dentist for cleanings and check-ups every six months. These visits include:
Deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
Monitoring for cavities and gum disease
Fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel
Advice on brushing and flossing with braces
At McLevin Dental Clinic, our team works closely with orthodontic providers to ensure your teen receives coordinated, comprehensive care.
Encourage Routine and Responsibility
The teen years are a great time to build lifelong oral hygiene habits. Encourage your teen to:
Stick to a daily routine, even during busy school days
Take ownership of their tools and appointments
Understand how their efforts impact both health and appearance
Stay motivated by tracking progress and seeing results
When teens feel in control of their care, theyre more likely to stay committed.
Final Thoughts: Braces and Healthy Teeth Go Hand in Hand
Braces can transform your teens smilebut the outcome depends on more than just wires and appointments. A dedicated oral hygiene routine helps protect their teeth throughout treatment and ensures that the final result is as strong and stunning as intended.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, were here to support every step of your teens orthodontic care. From regular cleanings to tailored hygiene advice, we work with families to keep smiles clean, healthy, and braces-ready.
Schedule your teens dental visit today, and make sure their braces journey ends with a confident, healthy smile.