Looking after your teeth and gums is always important, but orthodontic treatment can mean giving your oral hygiene routine a little extra attention. Brackets, wires and attachments can create additional areas for plaque and food to collect, while clear aligners can hold plaque against the teeth if your teeth or aligners aren’t cleaned properly.
Small changes to your everyday routine can make a difference. We asked the L&L team to share some of the practical oral health tips they regularly give our patients during orthodontic treatment.
1. Brushing Tip: Close Your Mouth for a Better Clean
Nicole, Head of Practice Management
“One of the most common things people forget when brushing is to close your teeth together to reach the molars properly. When your mouth is wide open, your cheek can block the toothbrush from getting to those back teeth, and that’s where plaque loves to hide!”
2. Reduce Sugary Drinks to Avoid White Spots
Dr. Lawrence, Specialist Orthodontist
“Did you know it takes 30–60 minutes for your saliva to neutralise the sugar and acid in soft drinks, juice or slurpees? During this time, your teeth are vulnerable to decay, and if you have braces, you could also develop white spots on your teeth. We recommend drinking sugary drinks with your main meals (not sipping over time), and the best drink for your teeth? Plain water. Always.”
3. Replace Your Toothbrush Every Season
Sam, Dental Assistant
“Whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush, remember to replace it every 3 months. The bristles wear down and aren’t as effective at removing plaque. A handy trick? I change mine at the start of every new season — it helps me remember!”
4. Make Flossing Work for Your Routine
Anna, Reception
“I find a water flosser really easy to fit into my routine. If you’re finding traditional flossing tricky, ask the clinical team to show you some different options.”
5. Keep Up With Your Regular Dental Check-Ups
Your orthodontic appointments don’t replace your regular visits to the dentist. Your dentist continues to look after your general dental health throughout orthodontic treatment, including checking your teeth and gums for signs of decay or other concerns.
Continue attending your regular dental check-ups and cleans at the intervals recommended by your dentist.
Want More Advice on Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment?
These everyday habits are a great place to start, but your oral hygiene routine may need to change depending on whether you have braces or clear aligners.
Read our Ultimate Guide to Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment for more detailed advice on brushing, flossing, cleaning around braces, caring for clear aligners and protecting your teeth throughout treatment.
Keeping Your Teeth Healthy Throughout Treatment
Good oral hygiene is a team effort. Your orthodontic team can help you care for your teeth and orthodontic appliance, while your dentist continues to look after your general dental health throughout treatment.
If you’re an L&L patient and you’re finding brushing or flossing around your braces difficult, ask us at your next appointment. We can show you different techniques and recommend tools that may make your routine easier.
You can also find a range of oral care products at reception in both our Melbourne CBD and Templestowe clinics.