Oral Hygiene and Orthodontics
After receiving braces or retainers, you need to modify your dental hygiene routine. In addition to being more cautious and gentle when brushing and flossing, you will also need to be meticulous about removing food particles and plaque from around the brackets and wires. Without proper oral hygiene in orthodontics, you put yourself at risk for dental problems later on.
ORAL HYGIENE IN ORTHODONTICS
It’s essential that you maintain good oral hygiene in orthodontics. Unfortunately, keeping up with your old dental hygiene practices will have you falling short of your care. The components of braces make it difficult to reach certain areas of your teeth with a toothbrush or floss. While a quick brush and rinse may have been enough before braces, now you must dedicate the time to reach every area of your mouth. Ignoring proper oral hygiene in orthodontics practices can leave you at risk to struggle with the following:
- Bad breath
- Tooth decay
- Plaque
- Gum disease
- Demineralization
If left untreated, these problems can cause more serious oral health issues, and they can prolong your orthodontic treatment.
HOW TO PRACTICE PROPER DENTAL HYGIENE
To keep your smile healthy while you have braces, Dr. Ricci encourages you to follow these guidelines:
- Brush your teeth at least three times every day. Brush after every meal, and if you eat a sugary snack in between meals, it is best to brush again.
- Use an interproximal brush to help clean around the brackets and wires. This can help to clean spots that your toothbrush might have a hard time reaching because of your braces.
- Floss at least once every day. Using a floss threader can make it easier to thread the floss behind the wire of your braces.
- Rinse your teeth with water every time you clean your teeth. Based on your specific needs, we may recommend a specialized rinse.
- Pay attention to the list of foods to avoid with braces. This can help to keep your smile healthy and avoid damage to your braces.
For retainers, be sure to clean your retainer at least once a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the surface area of the retainer to prevent food and plaque buildup. Always rinse the retainer under cold water. For a deeper clean, soak your retainer in mouthwash.
RICCI ORTHODONTICS
Dr. Ricci and his team at Ricci Orthodontics are here to help you maintain proper oral hygiene in orthodontics. Through our variety of orthodontic services, we can help the residents of Johns Creek, GA achieve the straight smile they both want and deserve. To plan your first visit, or to ask questions, call or text Ricci Orthodontics today at (678) 263-8695.