Do you have metal braces straightening your smile? Treatment time varies from person to person but most patients wear their braces for 18-24 months. For older patients or those with more severe misalignment, straightening takes longer. While your smile is transformed, can you get dental cleanings?
DENTAL CLEANINGS WITH BRACES
Yes, you still need dental cleanings during orthodontic treatment! Because braces often make it harder to keep your teeth clean at home, routine cleanings are especially important. Keep in mind that your appointment may take a little longer than usual. Plaque and tartar tend to accumulate around the wires and brackets. If you’re more vulnerable to issues like cavities or gum disease, you might need more frequent cleanings during orthodontic treatment.
KEEPING YOUR TEETH CLEAN AT HOME
To avoid dental issues while you have braces, stick to a good oral hygiene routine at home. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to carefully brush every surface of each tooth, paying particular attention to around your brackets and along the gumline. Brush under your arch wire and on the inner side of your teeth. Set a timer (or use an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer) so you brush for two minutes total, devoting 30 seconds to each quadrant of your mouth. And don’t forget your tongue!
To floss, you’ll need a tool like a floss threader. A water flosser also makes cleaning between your teeth and around your braces easier. While you have braces, consider brushing after every meal or at least cleaning away food debris with an interdental brush and thoroughly rinsing your mouth with water.
METAL BRACES & MORE IN LAREDO, TX
Laredo Orthodontics offers comprehensive orthodontics, including traditional braces, Invisalign, and retainers. Braces treat a variety of alignment issues and are a great choice for patients who don’t want to keep track of clear aligners. If you have questions or want to book a consultation with us, please reach out today.
