How to Take Great Care of Your Orthodontic Appliance
Orthodontic appliances, whether fixed or removable, can create new challenges for maintaining a clean mouth. Brackets and wires can trap food particles and plaque, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Similarly, Invisalign aligners, which cover your teeth for most of the day, can also trap food and bacteria against the enamel if not properly managed. Neglecting oral hygiene during treatment can lead to discoloration, bad breath, and even complicate your orthodontic progress. Therefore, a diligent routine is essential.
Oral Hygiene Practices for Braces Wearers
Traditional metal braces are highly effective, but they require specific care to keep teeth clean and healthy. Here are the best practices for patients with braces:
- Master Your Brushing Technique: Brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally after every meal, to remove food particles and plaque that can easily get trapped around brackets and wires. Use an orthodontic toothbrush, which often has V-shaped bristles designed to clean around the appliance, or a soft-bristled brush. Pay special attention to cleaning above, below, and around each bracket.
- Floss Daily: Flossing with braces can be challenging, but it is critical. Use a floss threader or a water flosser to navigate under the archwire and between teeth. This helps remove trapped food and plaque that brushing alone might miss.
- Use Mouthwash: An antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can provide an extra layer of protection by rinsing away bacteria and strengthening enamel.
- Mind Your Diet: Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your braces, such as popcorn, nuts, hard candy, gum, and sticky caramels. These foods can break brackets or bend wires, leading to unscheduled repair visits and potential delays in treatment.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Continue to visit your general dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups every six months, even while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Your dentist plays a vital role in monitoring your overall oral health and addressing issues like cavities or gum disease.
Oral Hygiene Practices for Invisalign Wearers
One of the major advantages of Invisalign is its removability, which significantly simplifies oral hygiene. However, this flexibility also comes with its own set of rules:
- Always Remove Aligners for Eating and Drinking: Before consuming any food or drink other than plain water, always take your Invisalign aligners out. Eating or drinking with aligners in can trap food particles against your teeth, leading to cavities, and can also stain or warp the aligners.
- Brush and Floss Before Reinserting: After eating, always brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before putting your Invisalign aligners back in. This is essential to prevent food debris and sugars from being trapped between your teeth and the aligners, which can lead to decay. If brushing is not immediately possible, rinse your mouth with water.
- Clean Your Aligners Daily: Your Invisalign aligners need regular cleaning to stay clear and hygienic. Rinse them with lukewarm water every time you remove them. Use a soft toothbrush and clear, mild soap to brush your aligners once or twice a day. Avoid using toothpaste on your aligners as it can be abrasive and cause cloudiness or scratches. Some patients also use Invisalign cleaning crystals for a deeper clean.
- Store Aligners Safely: When your aligners are not in your mouth, always keep them in their protective case. This prevents them from being lost, accidentally thrown away, or damaged.
- Stay Hydrated with Water: You can drink plain water while wearing your Invisalign aligners. This helps with saliva production, which naturally cleans your mouth.
The Role of Your Orthodontist
Your orthodontist at My Orthodontist in Cherry Hill is your primary guide throughout your entire treatment process. They will provide personalized instructions on how to care for your specific appliances, whether it’s braces or Invisalign. Regular appointments with your orthodontist are essential not only for monitoring your progress and making adjustments but also for ensuring your oral hygiene is on track and addressing any concerns that arise. They are equipped to offer specific advice and solutions, ensuring your teeth remain healthy as they move into their new positions.
Long-Term Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene during your orthodontic treatment provides numerous long-term benefits. Properly cleaned and aligned teeth are easier to maintain after your treatment is complete, reducing the risk of future dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and uneven wear. An attractive, healthy smile also significantly boosts self-esteem and confidence, a benefit that extends far beyond the duration of your treatment.
Protect Your Investment With Good Oral Hygiene
Achieving a beautiful, straight smile with braces or Invisalign is a team effort between you and your orthodontist. By committing to the best oral hygiene practices, you play an active role in ensuring your treatment is successful and that your smile remains healthy for years to come. At My Orthodontist in Cherry Hill, we are dedicated to providing you with the tools, guidance, and support you need to make your orthodontic journey a success.
