Orthodontic care

Braces care

You will be shown the proper care of your braces when your orthodontic treatment begins. It’s important to clean your mouth every time you eat. Teeth with braces are harder to clean and trap food very easily. If food is left lodged in the brackets and wires, it can cause unsightly etching of the enamel on your teeth. Your most important job is to keep your mouth clean. If food is allowed to collect, the symptoms of gum disease will begin to appear. The gums will swell and bleed and the pressure from the disease will slow down tooth movement.

BRUSHING: You should brush your teeth 2-3 times per day.

  1. Brush back and forth across……between the wires and gums on the upper and lower to loosen any food particles.
  2. Next, brush correctly as if you had no brackets or appliances on.
  3. Start on the outside of the uppers with the bristles at a 45-degree angle toward the gum and scrub with a circular motion two or three teeth at a time using ten strokes, then move on.
  4. Next, do the same on the inner surface of the upper teeth.
  5. Then, go to the lower teeth and repeat steps 2, 3 and 4.

Look in the mirror to see if you have missed any places. Your teeth, brackets and wires should be free of any food particles and plaque.

Note: If your gums bleed when brushing, do not avoid brushing, but rather continue stimulating the area with the bristles. Be sure to angle your toothbrush so that the area under your gum line is cleaned. After 3 or 4 days of proper brushing, the bleeding should stop and your gums should be healthy again.

FLOSSING: Use a special floss threader to floss with your braces on. Be sure to floss at least once per day.

Fluoride rinse or gel may be recommended for preventive measures.

Appliance care

Clean the retainer by brushing it with toothpaste. If you are wearing a lower fixed retainer be extra careful to brush the wire and the inside of the lower teeth. Always bring your retainer to each appointment. Avoid flipping the retainer with your tongue because it can damage your teeth. Place the retainer in the plastic case when removing it from your mouth. Never wrap the retainer in a paper napkin or tissue because someone may throw it away. Don’t put it in your pocket or you may break or lose it. Excessive heat will warp and ruin the retainer, so don’t leave it in your car during the hot summer months.

Elastics care

If elastics – called rubber bands – are worn intermittently, they will continually cause more soreness. Sore teeth between appointments usually indicates improper wear of headgear or elastics, or signals inadequate hygiene. Wear your elastics exactly as your orthodontist instructs you. Take your elastics off while brushing. Change elastics as directed, usually once or twice a day.

 

Clear Aligner Care

Caring for clear aligners, such as Invisalign, is essential to maintaining oral hygiene and ensuring effective treatment. Unlike braces, clear aligners are removable, making eating and cleaning easier, but they require proper care to prevent damage and bacterial buildup.

Cleaning Your Aligners

  • Rinse after removal – Always rinse your aligners with lukewarm water before placing them back in your mouth to remove saliva and bacteria. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic.
  • Brush and soak daily – Use a soft toothbrush with clear, unscented soap or a designated aligner cleaner. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can scratch the aligners and make them appear cloudy.
  • Use an aligner cleaning solution – Soak your aligners in Invisalign cleaning crystals or a retainer cleaner for 15-20 minutes to remove plaque and keep them fresh.

Oral Hygiene with Aligners

  • Brush and floss after eating – Since aligners trap food and bacteria against your teeth, it’s crucial to brush and floss before reinserting them to prevent cavities and gum disease.
  • Avoid colored or sugary drinks – Drinking anything other than water while wearing aligners can lead to staining and decay. Always remove your aligners before consuming coffee, tea, soda, or juice.

Wearing and Storing Aligners

  • Wear for 20-22 hours a day – Consistency is key to achieving the desired results within the expected timeframe.
  • Switch aligners as directed – Follow your orthodontist’s schedule for changing aligners, typically every 1-2 weeks, to ensure proper tooth movement.
  • Store properly – Always keep aligners in their protective case when not in use to avoid loss or damage.

By following these guidelines, you can keep your aligners clean, maintain good oral hygiene, and ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment.

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