Does Your Breath Stink?

Kelly Orthodontics

We understand that bad breath can be an uncomfortable subject to talk about but unfortunately it happens to most people for several different reasons. Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by poor oral hygiene, personal habits such as smoking or eating certain foods, or medical problems. The most common factor for bad breath in patients with braces at Kelly Orthodontics is almost certainly caused by poor oral hygiene.

After getting braces, patients may develop bad breath from not cleaning their teeth correctly. Bacteria feeds on food particles left in your mouth, and this bacterium creates odor. Because braces contain so many small spaces to trap food, the habits that worked great for cleaning your teeth before braces may no longer be enough. If you recently gotten braces and have found that you have developed bad breath, there is a good chance that it’s being caused by bacteria remaining in your mouth.

Six Steps for Better Breath When You Have Braces.

Step 1: Brush & Floss Often - Oral hygiene is extremely important, especially when you have braces. If you have bad breath even though you’re brushing twice a day, it may be time to increase the number of times you brush and floss to 3-5 times a day. Bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, and some dental floss with you to work and/or school so that you can keep your mouth feeling clean throughout your day.

Step 2: Stay Hydrated - Dehydration is bad for both your overall health and your oral health as it can increase the chances of bad breath greatly. Drink a lot of water every day to keep your mouth constantly clean and moist.

Step 3: Replace Your Toothbrush – Thousands of germs hide out on your toothbrush, and when you have braces, it’s important to keep those germs under control. Dr. Kelly and his team recommend that you replace your toothbrush once every three to four months. However, if you find that you feel sick, don’t have fresh breath, or the bristles on your toothbrush are frayed, you may want to replace your toothbrush more often.

Step 4: Use Anti-Bacterial Mouthwash - One excellent way to kill order causing bacteria is to use mouthwash. Not only does mouthwash get into the spaces between your braces, but it also kills germs and bacteria that remain in your mouth.

Step 5: Get a Water Pick – Water Picks are available at many different price points and from many different brands. Water picks are designed to clean the miniscule spaces between your teeth and gums.

Step 6: Breath Mints - If you have established a proper dental health routine but you still feel self-conscious about having bad breath, you can temporarily freshen your mouth with sugar-free breath mints.

Remember to schedule regular dental visits. Scheduling regular dental visits will help you keep any tooth and gum problems at bay as well as to rectify any oral health issues that may be contributing to bad breath or affecting your braces.

For more information on fighting bad breath visit our website or give one of our friendly team members a call...we are here to help.