04/22/2026
Orthodontic treatment can create a beautiful smile, but without proper oral hygiene, it can also increase your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Whether you have braces, Invisalign, retainers, or a night guard, plaque can build up around your teeth, along your gums, and even on your appliance if it is not cleaned well. Over time, that plaque can lead to cavities, swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, and permanent damage to your teeth.
With braces, plaque often builds up around brackets and wires. With Invisalign, retainers, and night guards, plaque and bacteria can get trapped between the appliance and your teeth if you do not clean the appliance as instructed.
The goal is not just straight teeth. The goal is straight, healthy teeth.
That is why brushing and flossing 2 times a day as well as keeping your appliance clean are the most important parts of successful orthodontic treatment.