Maintaining good oral health can be challenging during orthodontic treatment.  Many orthodontic patients are adolescents and due to hormonal changes experienced during puberty, it can accelerate the incidence and severity of gingivitis.  This age group also tends to have poor snacking and oral hygiene habits.  Brushing alone will not remove enough plaque to prevent dental disease.  Orthodontic patients should use a power toothbrush at least twice a day.  Orthodontic patients should use a fluoride toothpaste and fluoride mouthwash. 

 

 

Some patients may need a prescription fluoride toothpaste or a prescription mouthrinse.  Effective cleaning in between the teeth is more difficult and time consuming for patients with orthodontics.  Floss threaders are designed to insert floss under orthodontic wires.  Patients may benefit from oral irrigation with a special orthodontic tip.  This reduces plaque levels and bleeding throughout the whole mouth.

Interdental brushes are designed to clean difficult to access spaces.  Fluoride varnish applications by a dental professional decrease decalcification during orthodontic treatment. Remember to have your teeth cleaned by a dental professional at least every 6months, some patients need cleanings more frequent during orthodontic care.
 
 
Reference: http://www.dimensionsofdentalhygiene.com/uploadedFiles/DDH/Magazine/2012/05_May/Features/oral-health-sunstar-spotlight.pdf

Pediatric Dental Center
Warren, MI
Dr. Shah, Dr. O’Riordan