Why Early Orthodontic Treatment Makes a Big Difference
August 30, 2025
Arlington | (817) 760 2503
By Celebrity Orthodontics
Whether you’re wearing metal braces or clear Invisalign® aligners, keeping your orthodontic appliances clean is essential for a healthy smile. This detailed guide from Celebrity Orthodontics in Arlington, TX, provides expert care strategies from Dr. Do‑deLatour—with over 16 years of experience—to help your orthodontic treatment progress smoothly and efficiently.
Why Proper Orthodontic Care Matters
Failing to maintain good hygiene can lead to dental decay, gum problems, prolonged treatment, and even enamel damage. This guide ensures you maximize your results while protecting your oral health.
Braces Care: Tips for Everyday Success
- Brush Thoroughly After Meals: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the brush at 45° toward your gum line, brushing above, below, and around brackets and wires. Aim for at least 2–3 minutes per session.
- Interdental Brushes & Proxabrushes: These handy tools clean stubborn food particles between wires and brackets. Use them gently to avoid bending wires.
- Orthodontic Flossing: Threader floss or specially-designed flossers can reach under wires and between tightly spaced teeth. Floss nightly to prevent plaque buildup.
- Rinse with Fluoride Mouthwash: A daily 30-second rinse strengthens enamel and helps prevent spots and decay.
- Avoid Harmful Foods: Steer clear of sticky sweets, hard candies, popcorn, ice, and nuts. These can break brackets or loosen wires, which may delay treatment.
- Orthodontic Wax for Comfort: Sudden rubbing or poking wires? Apply a small bead of wax to ease discomfort and protect your mouth until your next visit.
Invisalign® Care: Keep Your Smile Clear and On Track
- Always Remove Aligners Before Eating or Drinking: Only plain water is safe while wearing them. Never eat or drink anything else without removing your aligners.
- Clean Aligners Twice Daily: Gently brush with a soft toothbrush and clear antibacterial soap or denture cleaning tablets (found at most pharmacies). Avoid colored soaps that could stain the trays.
- Brush + Floss Before Reinserting: This prevents food and bacteria from getting trapped inside your aligners against your teeth.
- Use the Case That Comes With Your Aligner: Storing them in protective cases keeps them safe and clean when not worn.
- Consistent Wear (20–22 Hours Daily): To stay on schedule with your treatment, maintain high compliance by wearing your aligners almost all day and night.
Deep Cleaning for Extra Hygiene
Every week, soak your aligners in recommended cleaner or a 1:1 mix of water and hydrogen peroxide for 15 minutes. Clean braces by gently brushing teeth with a small, soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove any hardened buildup.
Troubleshooting & Emergencies
Even with the best care, accidents happen. Here’s how to address common issues:
- Loose Bracket or Wire: Apply orthodontic wax for temporary relief and call us to arrange a repair.
- Broken Aligner: Use your previous set and contact us for instructions—or go straight to your next set if advised.
- Staining or Bad Odor: Soak aligners in a denture cleaner deemed safe by the orthodontist—or use a refined cleaning method provided by our office.
- Loose Band: Schedule an appointment for professional reattachment.
Handling Specific Challenges
If you play contact sports, always wear a mouthguard to protect braces. Likewise, if you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), a nightguard can protect both teeth and orthodontic appliances.
Tips for Parents: Supporting Young Patients
- Make It Routine: Set a consistent brushing and flossing schedule to build healthy habits.
- Check Work: Inspect brackets and wires weekly for breakage.
- Encourage Independence: Children and teens can mark progress calendars or use reminders to stay consistent with aligner wear or dental hygiene routines.
Ready for a Healthy, Beautiful Smile?
Consistency is key. If you ever need help with comfort, emergency fixes, or cleaning techniques, contact Celebrity Orthodontics. Dr. Do‑deLatour and the team are here to guide you toward your healthiest smile.