Tips to Avoid Bad Breath with Braces

Did you know that many people experience halitosis or bad breath after getting braces? Bad breath with braces does not have to put you off getting braces. If you want to continue enjoying the benefits of braces, you need ways of coping with bad breath. Braces increase the areas in your mouth where bacteria that cause bad breath can hide.
If you have braces, you should focus on your overall oral health using these simple tips.
Increase Your Flossing and Brushing Frequency
If you brush twice a day and still notice that you have bad breath, you should consider increasing the number of times you brush to between three and five times a day. You should bring some dental floss, a toothbrush, and toothpaste when you go to work to help you continuously clean your mouth during the day. Brushing after every meal is ideal.
Ensure You Have a Good Toothbrush
It is recommended that you replace your toothbrush after every 3 to 4 months. If you have a toothbrush with fraying bristles or you always have bad breath, you should consider changing your toothbrush more often. Germs hide in your toothbrush as they do in your braces. Change your toothbrush more frequently to decrease the chances of bad breath.
Ensure You Use Anti-Bacterial Mouthwash
You should use an anti-bacterial mouthwash after brushing your teeth. Mouthwash gets into the spaces that your brush fails to reach and kills bacteria and germs remain after brushing or flossing. Find a mouthwash that does not burn if you are sensitive. You can make an effective mouthwash at home by mixing peppermint, tea tree oil, a little baking soda, and some water in your mason jar. Teat tree oil is a good natural anti-bacterial option.
Use a Water Pick
A water pick is designed to get into the hardest-to-reach spaces between your braces and teeth and is available at different price points. You should continuously use a water pick even if your mouth becomes inflamed until you get used to it. The benefits of using it will outweigh any negatives as it will help eliminate bad breath.
Use Breath Mints 
Breath mints and fresheners are readily available and also help if you are feeling self-conscious about bad breath. You should, however, avoid sticky sweets and gums, which are not recommended for people with braces.
You should schedule an appointment at Runnels Orthodontics for professional assistance if your bad breath from braces persists. We are conveniently located in Inlet Beach and Destin, and we also serve residents in Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Freeport, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Panama City Beach, and Panama City. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!