Orthodontic treatment corrects the alignment of teeth and jaws to provide a straighter and more aesthetically pleasing smile. However, paying extra attention to dental care throughout the treatment process directly impacts the success of the therapy. Maintaining oral hygiene and protecting the teeth while using braces or other orthodontic devices is crucial.
What to Consider During Orthodontic Treatment
Key considerations for dental care during braces treatment include:
Brush Your Teeth Regularly
Orthodontic treatment involves braces, wires, and other orthodontic appliances. These devices can cause food particles and plaque to accumulate around your teeth. Regular brushing is the most effective way to remove these deposits.
- Brush Twice a Day: Brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night. This is the fundamental step in keeping your teeth clean and healthy.
- Use Proper Technique: Carefully brush around the brackets and in the spaces between your teeth. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and brush gently.
- Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent cavities.
Use Dental Floss and Other Tools
Brackets and wires can make it challenging to clean between teeth and around attachments. Dental floss and other cleaning tools are necessary to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
- Flossing: Use special orthodontic floss to clean between your teeth during your orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic floss or flossing aids can be helpful.
- Tools: Besides floss, use interproximal brushes or dental cleaning devices. These tools help clean around the brackets and wires.
Use Mouthwash
Mouthwashes complement brushing and flossing by killing bacteria in the mouth and improving oral hygiene.
- Antibacterial Mouthwash: Use mouthwash with antibacterial properties to prevent bacterial growth in your mouth. This helps maintain the health of your gums and teeth.
- Follow Instructions: Use mouthwash according to the instructions, usually once or twice a day. Consider mouthwash as an additional step alongside brushing and flossing.
Pay Attention to Food and Drink Choices
Certain foods and drinks can damage braces or cause plaque buildup around the teeth. Therefore, making the right food and drink choices is important during your orthodontic treatment.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Hard foods can damage your braces or brackets. Avoid foods like nuts, hard candies, and hard fruits.
- Avoid Sticky Foods: Sugary and sticky foods can adhere to braces and cause plaque buildup. Steer clear of sugary gum, candies, and desserts.
- Limit Acidic Drinks: Acidic beverages (e.g., soda, orange juice) can damage tooth enamel and erode your teeth. Limit these drinks or use a straw to minimize contact with teeth.
Do Not Miss Regular Dental Check-ups
Your dentist monitors the progress of your orthodontic treatment and assesses your dental health. Regular check-ups help identify potential issues early.
- Schedule Appointments: Regularly schedule appointments with your dentist and follow your treatment plan for visits.
- Report Issues: If you notice any problems with your braces or oral health, contact your dentist immediately. Promptly addressing issues can make the treatment process smoother.
Properly Care for and Clean Braces
Proper cleaning of braces prevents plaque and tartar buildup around the teeth and positively affects the treatment process.
- Clean Braces Carefully: Regularly clean your braces and brackets. Use your toothbrush to remove plaque around the brackets and wires.
- Check Braces: Monitor your braces for any looseness or damage. If you notice any issues with the braces or brackets, consult your dentist.
Manage Discomfort in Jaw and Teeth
Some people may experience discomfort in the jaw and teeth during orthodontic treatment. Managing this discomfort can enhance the comfort of the treatment process.
- Pain Management: Mild pain or discomfort can occur during treatment. Use pain relievers for mild pain, but contact your dentist for persistent or severe pain.
- Mouth Protectors: Especially when playing sports, use a mouth guard to protect your braces and teeth.
Remember, by taking the necessary care for healthy and properly aligned teeth, you can achieve both aesthetic and functional improvements.
