What Is Causing Bad Breath?
Are you or a loved one receiving orthodontic treatment and finding that you are continuously dealing with bad breath? Unfortunately, one of the common side effects of wearing traditional metal braces and clear aligners is the chance of experiencing less than ideal breath. While everyone experiences bad breath from time to time, it can cause you to feel self-conscious if you experience it often. Read on to learn what may be causing your breath issues and how you can remedy the problem.
What is Causing Bad Breath?
If you are currently receiving orthodontic treatment such as traditional metal braces or clear aligners, you may be concerned if you are experiencing frequent bad breath. It is not uncommon, and there are simple adjustments you can make to help remedy the problem.
When you wear traditional metal braces, there are many nooks and crannies just waiting for food to become trapped. If you are not properly cleaning your teeth and braces, an odor can begin to form. Although clear aligners are removable and you can easily clean your teeth, odor can begin when the aligners are not being cleaned properly or you are wearing the aligners immediately after eating.
Ways to Eliminate Odor
There are simple steps you can take to help eliminate the odors that are causing your issues with bad breath. The best way to combat bad breath is to be sure that you are thoroughly brushing your teeth in the morning, after each meal and snack, and before bed. It is also important to be sure you are using dental floss at least once a day as well. An interproximal brush is a great tool to help clean around your brackets and between tight wires that your regular toothbrush might not reach. If you wear clear aligners, be sure that you are cleaning the trays as instructed by our team. We also want to remind you that you should not be eating and drinking wearing your aligners.
Visit Your Orthodontist
Along with visiting our office for your appointments to adjust and inspect your orthodontic hardware, it is equally as important to maintain your routine hygiene examinations with your orthodontist. Routine appointments allow your orthodontist to clean your teeth thoroughly and inspect for any signs of decay.
If you have any questions about breath issues or concerns with your orthodontic hardware or treatment, be sure to contact our office located in Southfield, MI. We are here to help!
