Why Oral Care Is So Important During Orthodontic Treatment

ALPHARETTA, GA – If you are wearing clear braces or have received any other type of orthodontic treatment in Alpharetta, then it is very important for you to make sure that you take good care of your teeth. Tartar, gingivitis, and demineralization often occur as the result of poor dental care. People who wear dental appliances are more prone to other dental problems, such as gingivitis.

When you do not take proper care of your teeth and braces, it is likely you will extend the time you are required to wear those braces. Additionally, if you develop a severe enough case of gum disease, then it increases the risk that your orthodontist will have to remove your braces so your gum disease can heal. When your mouth is better, then the orthodontist can re-apply the braces. This is not only inconvenient, but it can also be very costly. (Source: http://www.oralb.com/embraceit/good-oral-hygiene) Fortunately, oral problems can be prevented with proper care. Below are recommendations from Dr. Nima, an Alpharetta dental orthodontist, for taking care of your oral health while wearing orthodontics.

Make The Most of Your Orthodontists Appointments
This is one of the most important things that you can do to prevent dental problems. Keep all of your appointments so that Dr. Nima can adjust your braces and repair any damage. Remember that if you do not see your orthodontist regularly, then you will have to wear your braces for a longer period of time.

In addition to seeing your orthodontist, you will also need to see a general dentist every six months for a professional cleaning. These cleanings prevent the plaque from building up over time and damaging your dental appliance.

Brush And Floss
The advice that everyone gets when they visit their dentist is even more important when you have braces. You should brush after every meal. Not doing so increases the chance of developing cavities and gum disease. It might not be convenient to do so during school, but it is still a good idea to brush your teeth after lunch there too.

It is also important for you to floss at least once a day. Flossing helps remove food, plaque, and bacteria from in between your teeth. The best tool for this might be a pick-style flosser that helps you remove food debris caught in your braces as well as in between your teeth.

Watch Your Diet
Having a balanced diet is an often overlooked aspect of oral care for people wearing braces. At your appointment, your orthodontist will give you a list of foods to avoid because they can cause damage to your braces. Hard foods like lollipops should be avoided altogether and hard produce, such as carrots, apples or corn on the cob, should at least cut into smaller, bite-size pieces. Foods that are gooey or sticky should also be avoided. This includes peanut butter, chewing or bubble gum, or gummy candies. Not only can these types of food damage your braces, they are also bad for your teeth.

For information about what to eat with braces, how to clean them, and more, we recommend heading over to this guide to braces from our orthodontist friend, Dr. Dan, from Showtime Smiles Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry.

It may seem like a hassle at first, but trust us, maintaining your braces throughout the orthodontic process will pay off in the end! It’ll keep your teeth clean and white for when you finally remove your braces. If you are ever uncertain as to whether or not a certain food is OK to enjoy while you are wearing braces, you can call Newpark Orthodontics to find out if it is safe.

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