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How To Keep Your Breath Fresh

Tips & Tricks From Your Local Seattle Orthodontist

Dr. Peralta, your local Burien and West Seattle, WA orthodontist recognizes that many of his patients are concerned about bad breath while wearing braces. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common problem that can cause embarrassment and concern. Keeping your mouth fresh while wearing braces, however, is not difficult to do. The main reason people wearing braces suffer from halitosis is due primarily to bacteria in the mouth having more surfaces to cling to and multiply from more easily.

Be Extra Diligent With Your Oral Hygiene

It is always important to practice good oral hygiene, but it is even more important when you are wearing braces. Follow these guidelines for best results:

1. You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day.
2. While brushing your teeth, make sure to also brush the gums, the roof of your mouth, and your tongue. These are all areas where bacteria can linger and cause your breath to begin to smell.
3. You should be using a soft toothbrush and a dab of toothpaste when brushing and do not forget to switch to a new toothbrush every three months or whenever the bristles wear down.

Mouthwashes, Water Picks, & Breath Mints

There are many types of anti-bacterial mouthwashes on the market that can help eliminate much of the bacteria that leads to bad breath. Using an anti-bacterial mouthwash once per day can help keep halitosis at bay. Additionally, water picks, which are dental hygiene devices that safely and powerfully blast areas of your mouth with a thin jet of water, can help flush away trapped food debris that may be left behind after brushing and flossing. Finally, while people wearing braces should not chew gum or eat sticky candies and snacks, sucking on breath mints is completely allowed and a good way to keep your mouth fresh when you are unable to brush your teeth during a certain period.

Have A Question? Give Us A Call!

The key to keeping your breath fresh is keeping your mouth clean by battling foul-smelling halitosis at its source, which are the bacteria in your mouth. If you have any additional questions or concerns about keeping fresh breath with braces, or if you would like to request an appointment, please feel free to contact us at 206.244.7800 for our Burien office or 206.938.3100 for our West Seattle office. We are happy to assist you in any way we can, and thank you for trusting us as your orthodontic care provider. We look forward to seeing your smile in our offices soon!