Getting braces will fix your crooked teeth, but it can be a big change in your mouth and your daily routine. Although bad breath can affect everyone, people with braces are often more susceptible to developing it. Fortunately, bad breath is preventable and treatable!
What Causes Bad Breath with Braces?
The main culprit of bad breath is bacteria in the mouth. Braces make it easier for food to get stuck in the small spaces around the teeth. If food isnโt removed, bacteria will feed on it and produce an unpleasant odor. Poor oral hygiene, gum disease, smoking, and drinking can cause bad breath.
How Can I Prevent Bad Breath?
Number 1. Brush and Floss Regularly. Oral hygiene is important when you have dental braces. You need to brush in the morning, night, and after a meal. If the bad breath persists after brushing twice a day, you may want to increase the frequency of brushing and flossing. Use a threader to floss your teeth to remove food particles from small spaces where the toothbrush cannot reach. You can also use interdental brushes to clean the inside of your teeth and gum, or use a tuft toothbrush to clean around braces.
Number 2. Use Antibacterial Mouthwash. After you brush and floss, use an antibacterial mouthwash to avoid bad breath with braces. It will get into the space between the teeth and kills germs and bacteria. If you have a sensitive mouth, use a mouthwash that doesnโt burn. If you want to go natural, add a few drops of tea tree oil and peppermint oil in water along with baking soda. This concoction doesnโt burn at all and is antibacterial. It will kill the bacteria and disinfect the mouth.
Number 3. Stay Hydrated. A dry mouth reduces the production of saliva, which further harbors an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Dehydration will increase the chances of bad breath. Drink lots of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. It will keep your mouth clean and prevent the growth of bacteria.
Number 4. Eat the Right Foods. Another bad breath remedy is to avoid foods with strong-smelling ingredients like garlic. Choose the right foods to eat with braces. Avoid sugary and sticky foods as they will lead to bad oral health. It may further lead to tooth decay and bad breath.
Number 5. Use Breath Mints. If you have bad breath after following all the oral hygiene habits, you can use breath mints temporarily. Avoid breath-freshening gum as it may stick to the braces. You can use the mints till your mouth gets adjusted to the new oral hygiene habits. It is a common bad breath cure but doesnโt rely on it completely to get rid of the bad breath.
Number 6. Use a Water Pick. A water pick is excellent for cleaning between the gums and teeth braces, and teeth and gums. They can even reach the hard to reach places where bacteria can grow. They use powerful jets of water to clean the teeth, and they are more effective than a toothbrush. Meyarn water flosser has 6 modes & 2 minutes timer, and contains 3 nozzles: standard, orthodontic, and dental plaque nozzles for different needs. The portable style is cordless and lightweight. Itโs Ideal for travel. You can take it anywhere you want. The water flosser can clean everywhere in your mouth and give you a fresh breath.
Lastly. Schedule Regular Orthodontic Visits. It is important to schedule regular dental appointments when you have teeth straightening braces to get your teeth cleaned. It will also help the dentist identify any issue that may lead to bad breath. You can ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy during and after the orthodontic treatment. As you align your smile, you will notice bad breath from time to time. This is normal because food particles and plaque tend to get stuck in the spaces between your teeth and appliance. When they are stuck for a long period of time, they put off a foul-smelling odor, resulting in bad breath. But the tips listed above will help prevent bad breath and keep your mouth healthy and boost your self-esteem high.
