Hygiene

A good dental hygiene is required to contribute to the success of your treatment. Your cooperation is essential in this regard.

If your follow our recommendations, you will permit your treatment to proceed in the normal fashion.  Because of the braces, food particles and dental plaque will accumulate very easily.  Poor hygiene can lead to tooth decay, inflamed gums and white stains on the surfaces of the teeth.

At the end of orthodontic treatment part of how good your teeth and gums look depends on how well you kept them clean during the treatment.

Brushing

Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste.

  1. Place the brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums and gently brush using a small, circular motion, ensuring that you always feel the bristles on the gums.
  2. Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth.
  3. Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside of the front teeth.
  4. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

Electric toothbrushes are also useful. They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time. Make sure the bristles of the electric brush are getting in behind the wire. If not, consider using one of the other brushing aids given to you.

Flossing

Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gum line. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.

  1. Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and tread it into a floss threader. Tie it on if you prefer.
  2. Thread the floss under the wire between the teeth.
  3. Once the floss is under your wire, then wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
  4. Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
  5. Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gum line. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.

Oral Irrigation

Oral Irrigation (WaterPik) can be a complement to regular brushing and flossing. It is the pulsating action of an irrigator that is key to what helps clear dental debris and food particles. Although the streams of water are gentle and un-invasive, the powerful and targeted action of the water jets does work well to disrupt the most difficult to reach areas of the mouth.

Rinsing

It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also after meals if you are unable to brush.

Demineralization

Beware!!! Demineralization sounds pretty serious, and it is. It occurs when food left on teeth comes in contact with bacteria, creating acid. This acid robs teeth of calcium and phosphate, causing decalcification or "white scars." White scars look like chalky little white squares that outline the area where braces once were. These white spots can also be very sensitive. It's important to note that braces themselves do not cause staining - anyone who doesn't care for their teeth well can have white scars. However, people with braces are more prone to decalcification because braces act as an excellent trap for food.

Unfortunately, these demineralization stains are usually permanent and can lead to cavities. You can avoid demineralization by brushing after every meal, flossing once a day, and cutting back on soda.