Knowing what is and is not okay while wearing braces can be tough to figure out at first. A few things are obvious; You should be brushing twice a day and flossing daily as a part of your dental routine, but many patients have questions about whether it’s safe to use mouthwash during orthodontic treatment. The answer is yes!
Benefits of Mouthwash
Keeping your mouth clean while wearing braces is a high priority. Bacteria love to hide out in the mouth, and braces provide them with even more nooks and crannies. When you use mouthwash, you’re getting one step closer to a clean, fresh, and healthy mouth. Other benefits of mouthwash include:
- Increased saliva production
- Reduction of bacteria
- Removal of food debris
- Fresher breath
When looking for a mouthwash, make sure you find one that is ADA-approved and contains fluoride, Chlorhexidine, and Cetylpyridinium chloride. These ingredients fight tooth decay, eliminate bad breath, strengthen tooth enamel, and reduce plaque & gingivitis.
In short, mouthwash should be included in your oral hygiene routine, with or without dental braces! Using a quality mouthwash is recommended to ensure the integrity of your teeth and mouth.
To learn more about what is and is not ok to eat or drink while wearing braces, please call Garlock Orthodontics today. Our Aurora, Colorado orthodontist office is happy to answer any questions you may have.