La Habra/Chino Hills, CA – Wearing braces can provide a beautiful, properly functioning smile at the end of treatment. But while your braces are on, there are some minor inconveniences, such as proper flossing, worrying about food getting stuck, and bad breath. Dr. Robert Gire of Gire Orthodontics offers some practical tips to avoid bad breath during orthodontic treatment.

“Bad breath can be embarrassing, but luckily there are many things you can do to avoid it during your treatment,” says Dr. Gire, who treats patients from offices in La Habra and Chino Hills.

“If you wear braces, you may have noticed you have bad breath more frequently, and that’s because the bacteria that can lead to stinky breath has more to stick to. Keeping your mouth clean is the best way to prevent bad breath from sneaking up on you.”

Here are Dr. Gire’s tips for avoiding bad breath while in braces.

1. Practice good oral hygiene. Brush often – you know you’re supposed to brush twice a day, but while in braces you may need to brush more frequently. It can be helpful to brush after meals and snacks to remove food and debris that may stick to your brackets and wires. Likewise, don’t forget to floss. Flossing will remove the debris that hides in the areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
2. Eat a well-balanced diet, and try to steer clear of sugary foods and drinks. The bacteria that live in your mouth love sugar and that may lead not only to the potential of tooth decay, but also bad breath.
3. Drink plenty of water. If your mouth is dry, it can contribute to bad breath. The regular production of saliva helps to wash away bacteria and the food debris that gets left over in your mouth. A well hydrated mouth can keep bad breath at bay.
4. Visit your dentist for regular professional cleanings throughout your orthodontic treatment.
5. Ask your orthodontist about other ways you can prevent bad breath. He or she may suggest adding an antibacterial mouthwash to your routine, or recommend a Waterpik to help remove debris from your mouth.

“Remember, bacteria feeds on the food particles in your mouth, which then creates the odor,” says Dr. Gire.

“If tiny bits of food get left in your brackets or between your teeth, you’ll most likely experience bad breath. The best defense against halitosis is paying extra attention to your oral care during your orthodontic treatment.”

If you have questions about how to keep your breath fresh during braces treatment, or would like to schedule an orthodontic consultation, call Gire Orthodontics today 562-690-1199 (La Habra) or 909-393-9911 (Chino Hills).