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Bad Breath with Braces or Clear Aligners? Here’s What You Can Do!

Writer: Amy Carpenter MBA RDHAmy Carpenter MBA RDH

Wearing braces or clear aligners is an exciting step toward achieving a straighter, healthier smile. But if you’ve noticed bad breath creeping in while undergoing orthodontic treatment, you’re not alone! Many patients experience unpleasant breath due to the changes in their oral hygiene routine and the challenges of keeping their teeth and appliances clean. The good news? There are simple solutions to keep your breath fresh and your confidence high throughout your orthodontic journey.


Why Does Bad Breath Happen with Braces or Aligners?

  1. Trapped Food Particles – Brackets, wires, and aligners create extra spaces where food and bacteria can hide. If not cleaned properly, these trapped particles contribute to odor.

  2. Bacterial Buildup – Braces and aligners can make it harder to reach all areas of the teeth and gums, allowing bacteria to accumulate and cause bad breath (halitosis).

  3. Dry Mouth – Some patients experience a decrease in saliva flow with aligners, leading to dryness in the mouth, which makes it easier for odor-causing bacteria to thrive.

  4. Poor Cleaning Habits – Skipping brushing or neglecting to clean aligners thoroughly allows plaque and bacteria to build up, contributing to bad breath.


How to Keep Your Breath Fresh

Brush and Pick Regularly – Brush at least twice a day and pick daily, using orthodontic-friendly tools like Gum Soft Picks to reach tight spaces. ✔ Clean Your Aligners Properly – If you’re using clear aligners, rinse them every time you take them out and clean them with mild soap or recommended cleaning solutions—not toothpaste, which can scratch them. ✔ Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and help wash away food particles and bacteria. ✔ Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash – A mouthwash designed for orthodontic care can help kill bacteria and keep your breath fresh, like Closys. ✔ Chew Active by OrthoGum – The gum is designed specifically for orthodontic patients! It helps stimulate saliva flow, fight bacteria, and keep your mouth feeling fresh—all without harming braces or aligners. ✔ Visit Your Dentist Regularly – Routine check-ups and cleanings ensure that plaque and tartar buildup are kept under control.


OrthoGum: A Fresh Breath Solution for Ortho Patients

Active by OrthoGum is formulated to support your oral health while wearing braces or aligners. Unlike regular gum, it’s safe to chew with orthodontic appliances and helps combat dry mouth, freshen breath, and promote a clean smile. Plus, it tastes great and fits seamlessly into your daily routine! If you’re struggling with bad breath during orthodontic treatment, try these simple tips and incorporate Active by OrthoGum into your routine. A fresh, healthy smile is just a chew away!


Follow www.orthogum.com for more orthodontic tips and fresh breath solutions!





Box of active chewing gum for aligners with mint flavor, 20 pieces. Text: Accelerates treatment, vegan, cruelty-free, made in USA.


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