Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment

We know that practicing good oral hygiene when you’re wearing braces can be difficult. Food debris can build up around wires and brackets, and it can be difficult to floss and brush around these areas. However, these are the same reasons why practicing good oral hygiene during your orthodontic treatment is more important than ever. If you neglect your teeth during this time, you’re more vulnerable to tooth decay, dental cavities, and even gum disease.

Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment

By taking extra measures to ensure good oral hygiene, you can avoid common dental problems during your orthodontic treatment. For example, these extra measures will help:

• Produce a whiter and brighter outcome – We know that patients who make sure to brush after each meal, floss at least one time a daily, and visit our office every six months will notice a brighter, more beautiful smile once the braces are removed.
• Reduce any demineralization – If your teeth aren’t being protected from plaque and tartar, you may begin to notice demineralization. This will cause white scarring on your teeth.
• Ensure your orthodontic treatment is completed on time – If you aren’t caring for your teeth, you may experience dental cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, or broken brackets. Each of these issues will delay treatment.

Caring For Your Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment

Below are a few tips on how to properly care for your teeth when wearing braces:

• Floss – Flossing is one of the most important ways to care for your teeth during orthodontic treatment. We know that flossing with braces on will add an extra step or two, but we can guarantee that your work will pay off. If you’re having a difficult time flossing through your braces, please let us know. There are tools and tips we can provide.
• Checkups – Dr. Polson and his team of hygienists are trained to identify problems while they’re still developing and easier to treat. Making sure to visit our office every six months during your orthodontic treatment can help you stay on top of your oral health.
• Symptoms – There are symptoms to keep an eye out for during your orthodontic treatment. If you start to notice tooth sensitivity, swollen or bleeding gums, toothaches, or discoloration on the teeth, please contact our office right away. These can be signs of gum disease or tooth decay.

Here at Meadows Family Dental, the results of your orthodontic treatment are important to us. We want you to love your new smile! To learn more about caring for your teeth when wearing braces or to make an appointment with Dr. Polson, please contact our Castle Rock, CO dental office today.