Caring for Your Smile During Orthodontic Treatment
Wearing braces adds a few extra steps to your daily hygiene routine, but staying on top of it makes a real difference in your results. Brackets and wires create small spaces where food particles can settle, which means plaque can build up more easily if oral care habits slip.
Our Springville team wants every patient to leave the office knowing exactly how to care for their smile at home. We'll show you which techniques and tools work best so you can keep your teeth and gums healthy from your first appointment through your final one. Consistent brushing and flossing remain the foundation of good oral health throughout treatment, and building strong habits early makes the entire process easier.
Helpful Tools for a Healthier Smile in Braces
In addition to regular brushing and flossing, our Springville team often recommends a few extra tools to help patients stay ahead of plaque and irritation during treatment.
- Interdental Brush
This small, flexible brush is built to reach the tight spaces around brackets and wires that a standard toothbrush can miss. Used with a light touch, it helps clear away food debris and plaque buildup without putting stress on your braces. - Antimicrobial Rinse
We recommend Peroxyl, a hydrogen peroxide-based rinse that helps reduce the risk of infection and soothe any irritation caused by brackets or wires. It can be used up to four times a day, ideally after meals and before bedtime. - Fluoride Treatment
Phos-Flur, a sodium fluoride gel, helps strengthen enamel and guard against decay while you're in braces. The gel works to combat bacteria and restore essential minerals to the teeth, with each application lasting around 30 minutes. - Cleaning Removable Appliances
For patients using a removable appliance such as a retainer, cleaning it as often as you brush your teeth is essential to prevent bacteria buildup. Our team will show you the proper cleaning method to keep your appliance in good condition throughout treatment.
Taking care of your smile during orthodontic treatment doesn't have to be complicated. If you have questions about the best hygiene routine for your specific treatment, our Springville team is always ready to help. Reach out to our office anytime for guidance.