Importance of Plaque Control During Orthodontic Treatment

Everyone knows the importance of keeping plaque under control for the good of our dental health; this is especially important during periods of dental treatment.

For any patient who is undergoing orthodontic treatments, such as braces, it is important to follow the instructions of the orthodontist, who can advise on good dental hygiene habits to help minimize the likliehood of tooth decay during treatment. Plaque is a sticky substance that forms on our teeth and gumline due to bacteria in the mouth. It is a natural occurring substance, but regular brushing and flossing of the teeth helps to remove plaque. Plaque that is not removed can build up and solidify into a harder substance called tartar. Tartar is more difficult to remove, and often requires the services of a dental hygienist to successfully get rid of tartar build up. Plaque and tartar, if not removed, can lead to tooth decay.

Orthodontic treatment can make keeping the teeth clean more challenging; the supports and wires used in treatment can interfere with the patient’s normal dental hygiene program. Brushing and flossing become less effective, and plaque build-up is harder to prevent. As a result, it’s vitally important to ensure a good dental hygiene program is maintained.

An orthodontist is able to advise on a series of measures that can help to minimize the risks associated with plaque build up during orthodontic treatment.

These steps include the avoidance of sticky or sugary foods and drinks, advice on how to brush and floss while wearing braces, the best type of toothbrush, toothpaste and floss to use, advice on using flouride mouthwashes to wash away bacteria, and of course regular dental visits to ensure dental health is being maintained, and to counter any problems that may have arisen.

Following the orthodontist’s advice on dental hygiene while wearing braces can help minimize the risks associated with plaque and tooth decay during braces treatment, helping to keep teeth clean and healthy during orthodontic treatment.

Contact Newman Orthodontics, serving Nassau County, at 516-626-2060 for additional information.

Is flossing possible with braces?

For patients undergoing orthodontic treatment in Long Island, keeping the teeth clean can be a major challenge. Both the brackets and the wires associated with braces present obstacles to toothbrushes and floss. The appliances also can serve as a collection point for bacteria-laden plaque.

Of course, a clean healthy mouth is just as important for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment as it is for anyone. So, these patients must take extra steps to ensure that their oral hygiene routine is effective.

It is possible to floss with braces, although it will require you to adopt a different technique than traditional flossing. Your orthodontist can give you special floss threaders that will help you work around the wires. These threaders have thin plastic loops in which you place the floss. Then you insert the other end of the threader between your teeth near the gumline and pull the floss through the teeth. You will need to repeat this process with every tooth.

You can purchase floss threaders in the dental care section of your pharmacy. Some stores even sell pre-threaded pieces of floss that are useful for orthodontic patients.

Yes, flossing during your orthodontic treatment will take more time and effort, but it’s a worthwhile endeavor. Flossing will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout your treatment, and it will go a long way in preventing future problems if you keep up the habit. Keep in mind that you’ll only be in braces for two years or so, and then you can return to your normal routine.

If you don’t feel that you have the time or patience to make such adjustments to your oral hygiene routine, you may opt for a clear tray alignment system, such as Invisalign, to straighten your teeth instead. The trays can be removed for brushing and flossing and require no accommodations whatsoever.

Regardless of the method of orthodontic treatment you choose, it’s essential to keep your mouth clean during treatment. Contact the office of Dr. Seth Newman at 516-626-2060 for advice and instructions on how to accomplish this important goal.