Starting orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile—but maintaining good oral hygiene during that process is just as important as the treatment itself.
Whether you’re wearing traditional braces or Invisalign, keeping your teeth clean and your appliances in top shape helps prevent cavities, gum issues, and unwanted delays in your treatment plan. And with Los Angeles’ fast-paced lifestyle, it’s easy for daily hygiene to slip without the right strategies.
This guide covers everything you need to know about caring for your teeth while in treatment—so your smile stays healthy, polished, and on track.
Why Oral Hygiene Is Crucial During Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic appliances create small spaces where food particles and plaque can hide. Without consistent brushing and flossing, those spots can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Poor hygiene can lead to:
- Tooth decay — Cavities around brackets or beneath aligners
- Gum disease — Inflammation from plaque buildup
- White spot lesions — Permanent discoloration where enamel has demineralized
- Bad breath — From trapped food and bacteria
- Delayed treatment — Poor hygiene can slow down progress or lead to additional appointments
Keeping your smile clean is key—not just for oral health, but for the best possible treatment outcome.
Best Practices for Braces Wearers
Braces make cleaning more challenging, but with a few extra steps, you can keep your teeth and gums in excellent shape.
Daily Tips for Cleaning with Braces
- Brush after every meal — Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris around brackets and wires.
- Use an interdental brush — These small tools help clean between wires and reach tight spots your toothbrush might miss.
- Floss daily — Floss threaders or orthodontic floss picks make it easier to get between teeth and under the archwire.
- Rinse with mouthwash — An alcohol-free rinse helps reduce bacteria and refresh your mouth between brushings.
- Check in the mirror — Take a quick look after brushing to make sure nothing is left behind.
What to Avoid
- Sticky foods — Caramel, taffy, or gummy snacks can get stuck and be hard to remove
- Hard or crunchy snacks — Ice, popcorn, and nuts can damage brackets or wires
- Sugary drinks — Soda and energy drinks increase the risk of decay around brackets
Best Practices for Invisalign Users
Invisalign patients have a different advantage—removable aligners make brushing and flossing easier. But hygiene still requires discipline.
Daily Tips for Invisalign Hygiene
- Brush and floss before putting aligners back in — Always clean your teeth before reinserting aligners to avoid trapping food or bacteria.
- Clean your aligners twice a day — Use a soft toothbrush with clear, unscented liquid soap or a designated aligner cleaner. Avoid toothpaste, which can scratch the plastic.
- Rinse after removal — Every time you take your aligners out (for meals, drinks, or snacks), give them a quick rinse with water.
- Soak daily — Use cleaning crystals or a mild solution to soak aligners for 15–30 minutes. This helps eliminate bacteria and cloudiness.
What to Avoid
- Eating or drinking with aligners in — Only plain water is safe to consume while wearing them
- Colored or scented soaps — These can leave residue or unpleasant tastes
- Hot water — High heat can warp the plastic, affecting fit and comfort
Hygiene Tools Worth Having
Staying consistent with oral care becomes easier when you have the right tools. Consider adding these to your routine:
- Electric toothbrush — Provides deeper cleaning with less effort, especially useful for hard-to-reach areas
- Floss threaders or water flossers — Helpful for patients with braces or tight contacts
- Orthodontic wax — Reduces irritation from brackets or wires that may rub against cheeks or lips
- Portable dental kit — Keep a small kit in your bag or car with a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and aligner case for on-the-go cleanups
Building Consistency into Your Routine
A strong hygiene routine doesn’t have to be time-consuming. These simple strategies can help keep you on track:
- Set daily reminders — Use your phone or calendar to build in time for brushing, flossing, and aligner care
- Establish morning and evening rituals — Linking hygiene to daily habits (like skincare or coffee time) helps make it automatic
- Track aligner wear time — Use apps or timers to make sure you’re hitting 20–22 hours a day if you’re using Invisalign
- Schedule professional cleanings — Keep up with routine dental visits during treatment to catch and treat any issues early
Local Tips for Staying Fresh in LA
With so much happening in and around Los Angeles—from work to social events to travel—it’s smart to prepare for life on the go. A few local-specific tips:
- Pack a mini kit — Useful for touch-ups between meetings or after grabbing tacos on the Westside
- Stay hydrated — LA’s dry climate can lead to dry mouth, so sip water often to reduce bacteria buildup
- Choose aligner-friendly foods — Salads, sushi, and soft protein options work well while dining out without disrupting your wear time
Final Thoughts: Clean Teeth, Confident Smile
Maintaining great hygiene during orthodontic treatment isn’t just about avoiding problems—it’s about feeling your best every step of the way. Whether you’re rocking braces or Invisalign, a clean, healthy mouth boosts your confidence and supports the success of your treatment.
A little daily effort goes a long way in protecting your investment and achieving a stunning result you’ll love to show off.
Need Support for Your Smile Routine?
Whether you’re just starting treatment or want to improve your hygiene routine mid-process, expert guidance can make all the difference. From personalized tips to the latest tools, we’re here to help you stay on track and love your results.
Let’s keep your smile healthy, polished, and on point. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.