Caring for Your Teeth and Gums During Orthodontic Treatment

Looking after your teeth and gums is important at every stage of life — and it becomes even more important during orthodontic treatment. Good daily care helps protect your teeth, keep gums healthy, and support the long-term success of braces or aligners.

This guide is written for patients having treatment at Angus Pringle Orthodontics in Fareham and Winchester, and is consistent with advice from trusted professional bodies including the British Orthodontic Society. If you’re not sure what applies to your appliance, the quickest first step is a free online orthodontic consultation.

Why oral hygiene matters during orthodontic treatment

Braces and aligners create extra places where plaque can collect. Without good daily cleaning, this can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum inflammation, and permanent marks on the teeth. Good oral hygiene helps ensure that when treatment is complete, teeth are not only straighter — but healthy too.

Brushing your teeth with braces

If you have fixed braces (including Damon braces), it’s important to brush thoroughly at least twice a day, paying close attention to the gum line and around brackets and wires.

• Use a fluoride toothpaste
• Brush carefully around brackets and along the gums
• Take your time — effective brushing matters more than brushing quickly

For teenagers in braces, these habits make a big difference — see braces for teenagers in Fareham for more guidance on what to expect during treatment.

The British Orthodontic Society has produced a short video showing how to brush effectively with braces:

Cleaning between your teeth

Cleaning between the teeth is just as important as brushing. This helps remove plaque from areas a toothbrush can’t reach.

• Use interdental brushes where recommended
• Floss carefully if advised by your orthodontic team
• Ask for guidance on the most suitable tools for your brace or aligners

Caring for your teeth with clear aligners

If you’re wearing clear aligners such as Invisalign or Spark Aligners, good hygiene is still essential. Teeth should be brushed before aligners are put back in to avoid trapping plaque against the teeth.

• Brush after meals before reinserting aligners
• Clean aligners daily using the recommended method
• Avoid sugary or acidic drinks while aligners are in place

Considering aligners but not sure which system is best? Start with a free online consultation, or compare Invisalign and Spark in more detail.

Diet and orthodontic treatment

Diet plays an important role in protecting teeth and braces during orthodontic treatment.

• Avoid hard or sticky foods if you have braces
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks
• Choose water or milk instead of fizzy or acidic drinks

Following dietary advice helps reduce breakages, avoid delays in treatment and protect tooth enamel. If you’re weighing up treatment choices, the main options are covered on orthodontic treatment in Fareham.

Looking after your gums

Healthy gums are essential for successful orthodontic treatment. Red, swollen or bleeding gums are often a sign that plaque isn’t being removed effectively. Good brushing technique, regular cleaning between the teeth and routine dental check-ups all help maintain healthy gums during treatment.

Retainers after orthodontic treatment

Once treatment is complete, wearing a retainer is essential to keep your teeth straight and protect your result long-term. Read more about retainers and how “holding that smile” works in real life.

Specialist support throughout treatment

Patients are supported throughout orthodontic treatment with personalised advice based on their appliance, age and individual needs. If problems arise — such as sore gums, bleeding, or difficulty cleaning — guidance is always available.

To explore treatment routes, see adult orthodontic treatment and braces for teenagers. If you’re local, view the areas we cover across Hampshire.

Costs and next steps

If you’re thinking about treatment, costs are explained clearly and upfront. You can read more on orthodontic costs and fees, or start with a free online orthodontic consultation before booking in person.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my teeth with braces?

Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, and ideally after meals, to remove plaque and food trapped around braces.

Do I still need to see my dentist during orthodontic treatment?

Yes. Regular dental check-ups and hygiene visits remain important throughout orthodontic treatment to maintain overall oral health.

What happens if oral hygiene isn’t good during treatment?

Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum problems and permanent marks on the teeth. In some cases, orthodontic treatment may need to be paused to protect dental health.

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