Good Oral Health Before Braces or Aligners: Why It Matters and How to Improve It

If you're considering braces or clear aligners, being told your treatment needs to be delayed can feel disappointing. The good news is that this is usually temporary, manageable, and done to protect your long-term dental health. Good oral health before orthodontic treatment matters because braces and aligners can make teeth harder to clean. If plaque, bleeding gums, or early decay are already present, treatment may increase the risk of enamel damage, gum problems, or avoidable delays. Key takeaway Being asked to improve your oral hygiene before braces or aligners is not a judgement. It is a protective step that helps make treatment safer, smoother, and more successful. A Gentle Reassurance for Nervous Patients First, let's be clear: being asked to improve your oral health does not mean you...