Orthodontic care doesn’t end when you step out of the office—it’s really just the start of your orthodontic treatment. At Beim Orthodontics, our team believes in keeping you informed from the very beginning. So let’s discuss some of the best practices for maintaining your oral health during your orthodontic treatment.
Our Treatment Options
Before we discuss how to care for your orthodontic appliances and the potential consequences of neglecting them, let’s take a look at the treatment options Dr. Beim offers!
- Metal Braces: A tried-and-true option, metal braces are typically the go-to for children, but they work just as effectively for adults.
- Clear Braces: Also known as ceramic braces, these function like metal braces but use tooth-colored brackets made from polycrystalline ceramic, blending in with your smile.
- Invisalign and Spark Aligners: At Beim Orthodontics, we offer these removable aligners for teens and adults. They provide a discreet, flexible alternative to braces, with new aligners worn weekly to gradually shift your teeth into place.
- Carriere Motion Appliance: Designed to correct bite issues before starting braces treatment, this appliance is as effective as headgear—without the bulky hardware.
Braces in the Best Way
Here are some of the best practices we recommend you follow during your orthodontic treatment. These tips apply whether you have traditional braces or removable aligners!
- Attend All Appointments: Regular visits are necessary to track your progress and make the adjustments that are needed to your appliance. If any issues arise between appointments, attending promptly helps us address them before they worsen.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss after every meal and before bed to keep plaque and bacteria at bay. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. For traditional braces, take extra care around brackets and wires.
- Use Mouthwash: Antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can reduce bacteria and strengthen your teeth, giving you extra protection.
- Floss Regularly: Flossing can be tricky with braces, but it’s important. Use braces-specific floss or orthodontic floss threaders to make the process easier and more effective.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth clean.
- Choose a Braces-Friendly Diet: Avoid chewy, hard, or sticky foods that could damage your braces. Limit sugary foods to prevent cavities. Stick to softer options like yogurt, soups, and cooked vegetables.
- Protect Your Appliance: Teeth grinding or playing sports can damage your braces, so wearing a mouthguard is a smart preventative measure. If you wear aligners, be sure to keep track of them to avoid loss or damage.
- Regular Dental Cleanings: Continue seeing your general dentist for routine cleanings. They work with us to spot any cavities or damage during your treatment.
- Handle Emergencies Quickly: If a wire breaks or any part of your appliance becomes damaged, contact our office to see Dr. Beim right away. Delaying repairs can slow your progress and potentially cause further issues.
The main rule for every kind of orthodontic treatment is compliance. The Beim Orthodontics team will provide you with all of the guidelines and information you need to maintain your oral health and appliances—but it’s up to you to keep up with these practices.
A Word of Caution
We understand that talking about potential negative outcomes isn’t always a good time, but the first step to preventing them is being fully aware of the risks!
- Cavities and Gum Disease: These are common dental issues, but the risk increases with braces or aligners since they create more spaces for bacteria to build up. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay and gingivitis, which may cause inflammation and irritation around your gums.
- Weakened Teeth: Cavities weaken the internal structure of your teeth, potentially leading to the need for further dental work after your treatment is complete.
- White Spots and Stains: Irregular cleaning may not seem like a big issue during active treatment, but when your braces come off, you might notice unsightly white spots left behind. These can affect the final appearance of your smile and might require cosmetic treatment, which adds even more cost.
- Extended Treatment Time: While treatment lengths vary depending on individual cases, poor oral care or complications inevitably delay your progress, meaning it’ll take longer to reach your goal of a beautiful, healthy smile.
Patience and Persistence
We understand that maintaining good oral hygiene can be tough, but our team at Beim Orthodontics is always here to help you every step of the way! For parents, keeping your child on track with their oral health is key, and the effort always pays off in the end. If you have any questions about oral health or are considering orthodontic treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us at our beloved Lake Mary office!