Having a bright, straight, and well-aligned smile can significantly help improve self-confidence and overall appearance. Orthodontic treatment is often used to help straighten and align a patient’s smile. However, proper oral hygiene is even more critical during orthodontics treatment to prevent any potential complications.
Before undergoing orthodontic treatment, it is important to understand how to maintain good oral hygiene and keep your teeth and gums healthy. This article will cover the most important aspects of oral hygiene, especially during orthodontic treatment, including preventive techniques, proper brushing and flossing habits, and how to deal with any pain and discomfort.
What is Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment involves fixing teeth that are crooked, gapped, misaligned, or overlapping. The most common form of orthodontic treatment involves the use of braces, which are small metal brackets that are bonded to the teeth and are connected by wires and rubber bands. However, other orthodontic treatments, such as clear aligners, may also be used to help straighten the teeth.
During orthodontic treatment, it is important to keep your teeth and gums healthy to prevent any potential complications. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and gum recession, which can all lead to discomfort and even extend the duration of orthodontic treatment. Therefore, it is essential to create a good oral hygiene routine and visit the dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups.
Understanding Preventive Techniques
Preventive techniques are crucial to maintaining a healthy mouth during orthodontic treatment. Chewing sugar-free gum, drinking plenty of water, and eating a well-balanced diet are all essential to oral health. Additionally, any sticky or hard foods should be avoided to prevent damaging the brackets and wires.
To help prevent the development of decay and gum disease, orthodontic patients should also make sure to brush their teeth thoroughly at least twice a day. An electric toothbrush can help to make this process easier and more effective. Special orthodontic brushes and interdental cleaners, such as floss threaders, bridge threading devices, or interdental brushes, should also be used to clean around the brackets and wires. Oxidizing mouthwashes and fluoride treatments can help to kill bacteria and strengthen the teeth.
Proper Brushing and Flossing Habits
During orthodontic treatment, it is more important than ever to maintain a regular brushing and flossing routine to keep the brackets and wires clean and free from plaque and food particles. Braces can make it more difficult to clean the teeth, but is still possible to do so effectively.
All parts of the teeth, brackets, wires, and the gums should be thoroughly brushed and flossed during orthodontic treatment. Special attention should be given to brushing and flossing around the brackets and gums, as this is where most plaque and food particles will be present. It is a good idea to use a mirror when brushing and flossing to make sure all areas are cleaned properly.
To brush the teeth properly, the toothbrush should be angled and pressed gently against the tooth just above the bracket and the gumline. Slowly move the brush in circular motions over the tooth to ensure all areas are cleaned thoroughly. For flossing, a floss threader or other interdental cleaner should be used to remove any plaque and food particles from between the teeth and around the brackets and wires.
Dealing with Pain and Discomfort
It is normal for orthodontic patients to experience pain and discomfort when wearing braces or undergoing other treatments. Pain and discomfort can be exacerbated by poor oral hygiene, so it is important to take the necessary steps to minimize any discomfort and keep the teeth and gums as healthy as possible.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help to alleviate any discomfort that is being experienced. It is also important to keep sugar consumption to a minimum, as it can lead to an increase in discomfort. Eating softer foods such as soup or macaroni and cheese can help reduce any pain and make it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Additionally, orthodontic patients should see the orthodontist regularly for check-ups and adjustments. The orthodontist will be able to provide the necessary care and advice for keeping the teeth and gums as healthy as possible. It is important not to miss any appointments during orthodontic treatment to ensure treatment proceeds as planned and that teeth and gums remain healthy.
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment is an effective way of straightening and aligning a patient’s smile, but it is important to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment to prevent any potential complications. Preventive techniques, proper brushing and flossing habits, and dealing with any pain and discomfort should all be considered during orthodontic treatment. Visiting the orthodontist regularly and keeping a healthy diet can significantly help keep the teeth and gums healthy during orthodontic treatment. By following the tips outlined in this article, orthodontic patients can significantly help improve their overall oral health and ensure their smile stays bright and healthy.