Month: April 2022

Good oral hygiene is a topic that your Summerville orthodontist will discuss with every patient who has braces. You know it’s essential to keep your teeth clean, but this daily habit is a bit more challenging when you have brackets and wires on your teeth. Brushing and flossing are crucial throughout this treatment and require a little more work. But it’s worth the effort to prevent cavities and gum disease during this time.

Does the Risk of Cavities Go Up with Braces?

Braces don’t cause cavities. But the placement of the brackets on your teeth can increase the likelihood of food getting stuck. If these food particles are left on the surface of the teeth, then plaque starts to develop, and the acids can result in the development of tooth decay.

Braces create more places where food particles can build up and cause cavities. However, there is nothing to worry about if you practice good oral hygiene habits because the food and acid are quickly removed from your teeth.

Proper Teeth Cleaning While Wearing Braces

It takes more effort to clean your teeth while wearing braces. Your Summerville orthodontist can provide recommendations for your oral hygiene habits, such as:

• Brush your teeth multiple times a day: in the morning, after eating, and before bed
• Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth
• Minimize your consumption of sugary and starchy foods, including candy, soda, and desserts
• Floss at least once a day using a floss threader to get the floss under the braces and between the teeth
• Consider using a Waterpik to dislodge food from the brackets
• If you are prone to cavities, talk to your Summerville orthodontist about using a fluoride mouthwash
• Maintain regular dental cleanings and exams while you are wearing braces

Learn More About Braces

What questions do you have about oral hygiene while wearing braces? Our team at Crescent Moon Orthodontics is here to help. Contact us at your convenience to learn more about available treatment options to straighten your smile.

Are you ready to straighten your smile, but you aren’t sure what to expect with braces? The first step is to schedule a consultation with a Summerville orthodontist to learn more about this process and access personalized recommendations.

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are thinking about braces for yourself or a child:

Braces Are Uncomfortable in the Beginning

There isn’t a way to sugar-coat the experience: it is a bit uncomfortable in the first few days of wearing braces. You’ll be at the Summerville orthodontist’s office for a few hours for the placement of the brackets and wires. Then, in the next few days, you will feel pressure and minor pain as the teeth start to move. So take it easy with your favorite movie and soft foods after you are done with the first appointment.

It Gets Better with Time

Within the first few weeks, you will get used to the feeling of having braces on your teeth. After that, the uncomfortable feeling starts to become “normal,” and you will be more comfortable talking and eating.

Oral Hygiene is Essential

Brushing and flossing are more important than ever, mainly because it’s easy for small bits of food to get caught in the braces. In addition, cleaning your teeth is a crucial step to prevent cavities in the areas where the food particles are collected.

Not only do you need to brush twice a day, but use flossing threaders to ensure you can clean between your teeth. Your Summerville orthodontist and their office staff will offer tips for cleaning your teeth with braces.

Schedule a Consultation with a Summerville Orthodontist

If you want more information, then it’s time to schedule a consultation with a local orthodontist. Reach out to our experienced team at Crescent Moon Orthodontics to learn more about your options. Our goal is to help you create a smile that you can proudly share with everyone you meet. Contact us for a consultation to see if you are a good candidate for braces.