Starting orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Whether you choose traditional braces, ceramic braces, clear aligners, or another treatment option, taking good care of your teeth throughout the process is essential for achieving the best possible results.
At Carter Orthodontics, we offer personalized treatment plans for children, teens, and adults using advanced technology and a full range of orthodontic solutions, including braces, clear aligners, retainers, TMJ treatment, airway aligners, and professional teeth whitening.
Here are our top tips for keeping your smile healthy during treatment.
Brush After Every Meal
Food and plaque can easily collect around brackets, wires, and aligners. Brushing after meals helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and staining.
For the best results:
- Brush for at least two minutes.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Pay extra attention around brackets and along the gumline.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months or sooner if the bristles become worn.
Don’t Skip Flossing
Flossing removes plaque where your toothbrush can’t reach.
If you wear braces, tools like floss threaders or water flossers can make cleaning between teeth much easier. Patients with clear aligners should floss before putting their aligners back in.
Healthy gums help your teeth move more efficiently during orthodontic treatment.
Clean Your Clear Aligners Every Day
If you’re wearing Angel Aligners or other clear aligners, keeping them clean is just as important as brushing your teeth.
Remember to:
- Rinse aligners with lukewarm water.
- Gently brush them using a soft toothbrush.
- Store them in their case when not in use.
- Never use hot water, which can warp the plastic.
- Brush and floss before reinserting your aligners.
Eat Smart
Your diet plays a major role in protecting your orthodontic appliances.
If You Have Braces
Try to avoid:
- Hard candy
- Ice
- Popcorn
- Sticky caramel
- Chewing gum
- Nuts
These foods can damage brackets or bend wires, potentially delaying treatment.
If You Wear Clear Aligners
Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything except water. This helps prevent staining and keeps the trays fitting properly.
Wear Your Appliances as Directed
Orthodontic treatment only works when appliances are worn consistently.
For clear aligners, this typically means wearing them 20–22 hours each day.
If you’ve been given elastics, retainers, or other appliances, following your orthodontist’s instructions will help keep your treatment on schedule.
Protect Your Smile During Sports
If you play football, basketball, soccer, baseball, or any contact sport, wearing a mouthguard is one of the best ways to protect your teeth and orthodontic appliances.
Ask our team which type of mouthguard is best for your treatment.
Don’t Miss Your Appointments
Regular visits allow your orthodontist to:
- Monitor tooth movement
- Adjust braces or appliances
- Check your oral health
- Keep treatment progressing as planned
Missing appointments can extend treatment time and delay your final results.
Know Which Treatment Is Right for You
Every smile is different, which is why Carter Orthodontics offers several treatment options to fit your goals and lifestyle.
Traditional Braces
A reliable solution for simple and complex orthodontic cases, providing excellent long-term results.
Ceramic Braces
Designed to blend with your natural teeth while delivering the same effectiveness as traditional braces.
Clear Aligners
Virtually invisible and removable, making them an excellent choice for teens and adults seeking flexibility and convenience.
Retainers
Custom retainers help maintain your beautiful smile after active treatment is complete.
TMJ Treatment
Specialized appliances can help relieve jaw pain, clicking, and discomfort caused by temporomandibular joint disorders.
Airway Aligners
Innovative airway-focused orthodontic treatment designed to support healthy breathing while improving your smile.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Complete your smile transformation with professional whitening after orthodontic treatment.
Your Best Smile Starts with the Right Care
Orthodontic treatment is about more than straight teeth. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, support healthier gums, improve bite function, and can contribute to better long-term oral health.
Whether you’re considering braces, clear aligners, retainers, TMJ treatment, or airway-focused orthodontics, our experienced team is here to help every step of the way.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Ready to start your smile journey?
Our team proudly serves patients throughout Augusta, Martinez, North Augusta, Aiken, Evans, Grovetown, and the surrounding CSRA with personalized orthodontic care for every age.
Book your free consultation today:
https://www.carterorthodontics.com/contact-us/appointment/
