When you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces, it can be easy to become focused on the excitement of achieving a straight, beautiful smile. You may fall into the trap of thinking your orthodontist is the only dental professional you need to see during your treatment.
However, be careful not to overlook the importance of maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout the process. You should be aware that your orthodontist typically does not perform your regular dental cleanings and checkups. These cleanings are just as important while you have braces and when you don’t.
Dental Visits During Orthodontic Treatment
Whether your orthodontic treatment involves braces or clear aligners, it is still as important as ever to visit your dentist regularly for your checkups and cleanings during this time. While your orthodontist is involved in correcting alignment issues, your dentist still plays an integral role in your oral health.
Challenges for Oral Hygiene
While braces are an effective tool for straightening teeth, they also introduce new challenges when it comes to keeping your teeth and gums clean. The brackets and wires can create additional spaces where food particles, plaque, and bacteria can hide, making it harder to maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine at home.
This is where professional dental cleanings come in, providing a deeper level of cleaning that’s essential for maintaining oral health during orthodontic treatment.
Preventing Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
Professional dental cleanings play a vital role in preventing tooth decay and gum disease, two common oral health issues that can be more difficult to avoid when you have braces. During a cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and along the gum line, paying extra attention to the areas around your brackets and wires. This thorough cleaning helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy, reducing the risk of cavities and periodontal problems that could compromise your orthodontic progress.
Ensuring the Effectiveness of Your Braces
In addition to protecting your oral health, professional dental cleanings help to ensure that your braces are working effectively. When plaque and tartar accumulate around your brackets and wires, it can interfere with the ability of your braces to properly move your teeth into their desired positions. Regular cleanings keep your braces free of debris, allowing them to function optimally and keeping your treatment on track.
Early Detection and Intervention
Another significant benefit of professional dental cleanings during orthodontic treatment is the opportunity for early detection and intervention of any developing issues. As your hygienist and dentist closely examine your teeth and braces during your cleaning appointments, they can spot potential problems such as cavities, gum inflammation, or damaged brackets early on. By addressing these issues promptly, you can avoid more serious complications that could prolong your treatment time or jeopardize your oral health.
Investing in Your Long-Term Oral Health
While the primary goal of orthodontic treatment is to achieve a straight, attractive smile, remember that your oral health is a lifelong investment. By prioritizing professional dental cleanings and maintaining good oral hygiene habits during your time with braces, you’re setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
The habits you develop now will serve you well long after your braces come off, ensuring that your beautiful new smile lasts for years to come.
Your Dentist and Orthodontist are a Team
Professional dental cleanings are an essential component of your oral health care during orthodontic treatment. By removing plaque and tartar, preventing tooth decay and gum disease, and ensuring the effectiveness of your braces, regular cleanings play a vital role in the success of your orthodontic journey.
If you have more questions about maintaining oral hygiene with braces, talk to us at your next appointment. Our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way towards achieving your perfect smile.
