Can Braces Cause Bad Breath?

At The Best Braces, our goal is to help our patients correct bite and alignment issues. There are a number of different treatments we can provide to help you achieve the goals we set for your teeth. Before starting treatment, we will review the best way to care for your teeth and orthodontic hardware. One of the side effects that some patients notice while wearing braces or clear aligners is bad breath. Bad breath develops when food or bacteria linger in your mouth. It is similar to the way food may have an odor if it is left sitting out for an extended period of time.

Ways to Prevent Bad Breath

Maintaining a strict oral hygiene routine with braces is imperative to avoid bad breath. Not only should you be brushing twice a day, but you should also be brushing after meals as well. The goal when you are wearing orthodontic hardware is to limit the amount of harmful bacteria in your mouth. In addition to brushing, be sure to use the tools we recommend to floss between teeth and ensure the areas around the brackets are free from lingering food particles.

In addition to cleaning your teeth properly, we also recommend limiting sugary foods and drinks. Having sugary beverages throughout the day adds to the amount of bacteria in your mouth. Drink plenty of water to not only hydrate your body but also to help rinse your mouth of harmful bacteria.

It is also important to continue to maintain your oral hygiene examinations and cleanings at your dentist while you are receiving orthodontic treatment. Visiting our office for adjustments and appointments does not take the place of regular visits with your orthodontist. They can evaluate your oral health and ensure that you are not experiencing any problems with decay.

If you have any questions about your orthodontic treatment or would like to learn more about the treatment we can provide to you or a loved one, be sure to contact our office, which is located in Southfield, MI, to schedule a consultation. We look forward to seeing you soon!