How to Keep Teeth Healthy with Braces: Simple Oral Care Tips
Braces do more than straighten your smile—they correct misalignments, improve bite function, and lay the foundation for long-term oral health. Whether you’re a teen or adult starting orthodontic treatment, one thing remains constant: diligent oral care is non-negotiable at every step of the journey.
Many people make the mistake of sticking to their pre-braces routine, but braces add unique challenges to cleaning. From navigating brackets and wires to reaching hard-to-access areas, maintaining dental hygiene requires extra attention and tailored habits.
In this guide, we’ll break down practical, easy-to-follow tips to help you keep your teeth bright, gums healthy, and smile on track—even with braces.
The Importance of Oral Care with Braces
Since orthodontic treatments and appliances are applied directly to the surface of your teeth, the process automatically puts you at greater risk of plaque buildup and decay. Fortunately, these are short-term risks that can be prevented with good dental habits.
When wearing braces or other appliances, don’t skimp on basic oral hygiene habits. At a minimum, this should include:
Cleaning regularly between teeth
Brushing at least twice per day
Removing food from braces after meals
Limiting drinks and food that contribute to staining (such as highly acidic or sugary foods and beverages)
How to Care for Teeth While Wearing Braces
Your orthodontic team can provide you with advice and tools for good orthodontic care. Many will even review the various types of brushes, interdentals and toothpaste that are best suited for braces. When it comes to basic tips and tricks, there are a few simple rules to follow for a healthier smile.