Wearing braces can make everyday dental care feel more detailed, but a good routine can make it much easier. The goal is to keep your teeth, gums and orthodontic appliances clean throughout treatment.
Why oral care matters more with braces
Brackets and wires create additional areas where plaque and food particles can collect. If these areas are not cleaned regularly, it can become harder to keep the teeth and gums healthy during orthodontic treatment. A careful routine helps you clean around the appliance without putting unnecessary pressure on it.
Good oral hygiene is not only about the braces themselves. Your natural teeth and gums still need daily care throughout treatment, so make brushing and interdental cleaning part of your normal routine.
Keep these oral-care tools handy
Your exact routine may vary depending on your braces and your dental professional's recommendations. Commonly useful tools include:
Brush carefully around every bracket
Brush your teeth gently and take time to clean around the brackets, wires and gumline. Paying attention to these areas helps remove food particles and plaque that can collect around braces.
Clean between your teeth
Food can become trapped between teeth and around orthodontic wires. Use an interdental brush or another cleaning method recommended by your dental professional to reach areas a regular toothbrush may miss.
Be mindful of hard and sticky foods
Hard, sticky or very chewy foods can put unnecessary pressure on brackets and wires. Follow the food guidance provided by your orthodontic or dental team to help protect your braces.
Rinse after meals when brushing is not possible
If you cannot brush after eating, rinsing your mouth with water can help remove loose food particles until you are able to clean your teeth properly.
Keep your dental appointments
Regular dental and orthodontic appointments allow your progress and oral health to be checked and give you an opportunity to discuss any problems with your braces.
Do not ignore discomfort or a damaged bracket
If a wire becomes loose, a bracket breaks, or you have persistent discomfort, contact your dental professional for advice rather than trying to repair the appliance yourself.
A simple daily checklist
Foods to be careful with
During orthodontic treatment, your dental team may recommend avoiding foods that are very hard, sticky or difficult to bite. These foods can put stress on brackets and wires or become difficult to remove from around the appliance.
Instead of biting directly into hard foods, follow your orthodontic team's instructions about safer alternatives and preparation. If you are unsure whether a particular food is suitable, ask at your next appointment.
A simple routine after eating
Remove any food that is visibly trapped around the braces.
Rinse with water if you cannot brush immediately.
Brush carefully when you are able to clean your teeth.
Use an interdental brush or recommended flossing aid to clean between teeth and around wires.
Important: Your dental professional may give you instructions specific to your braces, teeth and treatment plan. Follow their guidance if it differs from general advice.
Common questions about braces care
How often should I clean my teeth with braces?
Follow the brushing schedule recommended by your dental professional. Cleaning thoroughly and consistently is especially important when brackets and wires are present.
Can I still floss while wearing braces?
Yes, cleaning between the teeth remains important. Your dental professional can show you the flossing method or cleaning aid that works with your particular appliance.
What should I do if a bracket breaks?
Contact your dental or orthodontic team and follow their instructions. Avoid attempting to repair or reposition the bracket yourself.
Should I use mouthwash?
A fluoride mouthwash may be recommended in some situations, but it should complement—not replace—brushing and cleaning between the teeth. Ask your dental professional what is appropriate for you.
When to contact your dental team: Seek professional advice if you have persistent pain, significant swelling, a damaged or loose appliance, or another concern that does not settle. Your dental professional can advise you on the appropriate next step.