Do Braces Make Your Breath Stink?

Everyone experiences bad breath from time to time. The good news is that it can usually be fixed with regular brushing and flossing. But if you have braces, you’ll need to step up your routine to keep your mouth fresh.

What Causes Bad Breath with Braces?

Brushing teeth and braces The main cause of bad breath is the bacteria that live in your mouth. After you eat, these bacteria consume any food that gets left behind. This process creates an unpleasant odor.

Having braces makes it easier for tiny bits of food to get stuck — and stay stuck. Pieces of your last meal may wind up behind a bracket or trapped behind a wire. If you don’t remove them fast enough, you will probably develop bad breath.

Other causes of bad breath include dry mouth and gum disease. Our team will make sure that your mouth is healthy before you get braces and while you are wearing them.

Tips for Fresh Breath While Wearing Braces

The most important tip for keeping your breath fresh with braces is to practice good oral hygiene. That means brushing your teeth in the morning, after each meal and snack, and before you go to sleep.

Make sure to use dental floss, interproximal brushes, or a water flosser to help remove any trapped food particles. You may even want to brush your tongue or pick up a tongue scraper.

Other ways to enjoy fresh breath with braces include:

  • Using mouthwash
  • Staying hydrated
  • Replacing your toothbrush more often
  • Eating sugarless breath mints
  • Avoiding strong-smelling foods
  • Visiting our office regularly

Getting braces requires you to make some changes in your daily routine. But with these simple tips, you should have no problem keeping your breath fresh during orthodontic treatment.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Denver Orthodontist

Experienced orthodontist Dr. Robert Rudman is committed to making your braces experience as pleasant as possible. If you have any other questions about living with braces, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Call 303-331-0222 to schedule a consultation at Advanced Orthodontic Care. We serve patients from Denver, Cherry Creek, Stapleton, and nearby areas of Colorado.

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