La Habra/Chinos Hills, CA – Keeping your mouth properly cleaned is a bit more difficult when you are wearing braces. You may find yourself experiencing bad breath more often with the orthodontic materials in place. So what can you do to stave off bad breath during the course of your treatment? Dr. Robert Gire offers the following tips.

1. Make your toothbrush your new best friend. You should brush and floss regularly whether you wear braces or not, but it becomes even more important to maintain good oral hygiene while in orthodontic treatment. The brackets of your braces leave tiny spaces for food particles to stick to and this can lead not only to bad breath but cavities as well. Carry a toothbrush and floss with you everywhere so you can brush after eating.
2. Use mouthwash. An antibacterial mouthwash can help eliminate more bacteria than just brushing alone. If you don’t use mouthwash currently consider adding it to your oral care routine. It’s important to remember that bacteria sticks not only to your teeth but to your tongue and to the roof of your mouth as well so a mouthwash can help rinse all those germs away.
3. Change up your diet. We know you have had to make some changes to accommodate your braces. Eating a healthier diet can improve the health of your mouth and help keep bad breath at bay. Foods high in sugar and simple carbs tend to generate more bacterial growth which means more bad breath. Add in more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein to help.
4. Drink plenty of water. Water helps wash away food debris that may linger after eating. Staying hydrated increases saliva production which helps wash away bacteria.
5. Change out your toothbrush regularly. Your toothbrush should be changed every three months but if you find yourself using it more often while in orthodontic treatment, you may need to change it out more often. Otherwise, the bristles get worn down making it less effective.
6. Consider adding a water pik to your oral routine. A water pik can help wash away bacteria in even the hardest to reach places making your mouth healthier and your breath fresher.
7. Maintain regular checkups with your dentist. Being in orthodontic treatment is no excuse to skip out on your dental visits. Your dentist can help ensure your mouth is healthy and help keep plaque and other causes of bad breath to a minimum.