How to Clean Braces and Aligners

Posted on by Lia Piggott

Orthodontic Aftercare: How to Clean Braces and Aligners Like a Pro

Using interproximal brush on fixed braces in Ilford

Achieving a straighter smile is a journey, but the health of your teeth during that process is just as important as the final result. Whether you are partway through traditional fixed braces or using removable clear aligners, maintaining peak oral hygiene is the secret to a fast, successful transformation.

At Orthodontic Gallery, we want to ensure your smile stays healthy and bright. Here is our expert-led guide to orthodontic maintenance and oral hygiene.

  1. How Often Should I Brush And What’s The Best Brushing Technique?

Braces and aligners create new hiding places for plaque and food debris. To prevent white spot lesions (decalcification) and gum inflammation, you must adapt your brushing habits:

  • Frequency: Brush after every meal. If you are on the go, a vigorous rinse with water can help until you reach your toothbrush.
  • Technique: Use a soft-bristle or electric toothbrush. Angle the bristles at 45 degrees to clean both above and below the orthodontic brackets.
  • Aligner Protocol: Always remove aligners before eating. Brush your teeth before reinserting them to avoid trapping sugars and bacteria against your enamel.

  1. What Specialist Orthodontic Tools Should I Use?

Standard brushing only cleans about 60% of your tooth’s surface. To reach the remaining 40% while wearing appliances, use these essential tools:

  • Interproximal Brushes: These small, “Christmas tree” shaped brushes are vital for scrubbing under the archwire and around brackets.
  • Orthodontic Floss or Threaders: Essential for navigating floss between the wire and the gum line.
  • Water Flossers: A Waterpik or similar device uses a targeted stream to flush out debris from hard-to-reach gaps.

  1. What Is A “Braces-Safe” Diet?

Your diet directly impacts the longevity of your appliances. Breaking a bracket or bending a wire can lead to unwanted emergency appointments and delay your treatment finish date.

  • Foods to Avoid (Fixed Braces): Sticky toffees, hard nuts, crusty bread, and popcorn.
  • Smart Choices: Opt for soft fruits, pasta, yogurt, and tender meats.
  • The Aligner Exception: While you can eat and drink anything with the aligners out, avoid drinking coffee, tea, or fizzy drinks while wearing them to prevent staining and acid erosion. Keep to water only when wearing the aligners.

  1. Don’t Skip Your General Dentist

While we monitor your tooth movement at Orthodontic Gallery, you must continue seeing your regular dentist for routine check-ups and hygiene cleans. Professional scaling is the only way to remove hardened tartar (calculus) that builds up around orthodontic hardware.

  1. How Do I Keep My Retainers And Aligners Clean?

Removable appliances need their own cleaning routine to stay clear and odour-free:

  • Daily Cleaning: Clean your aligners with a soft brush and lukewarm water.
  • Warning: Never use boiling water, as this can warp the medical-grade plastic and ruin the fit of your Invisalign or retainer.

  1. Watch for “Red Flag” Symptoms

Early intervention is key if your oral health starts to slip. Contact us if you notice:

  • Bleeding or Swollen Gums: A sign of gingivitis.
  • Persistent Halitosis: Bad breath often indicates trapped bacteria.
  • Loose Components: A loose bracket or protruding wire should be fixed immediately to keep treatment on track.

The Bottom Line

Excellent oral hygiene ensures that when your braces come off, your smile isn’t just straight—it’s healthy. If you’re struggling with your routine, our Specialist Orthodontists in Ilford are here to provide a hands-on demonstration.