Choosing an expert dentist to get a brace fitted means that patients can receive specific advice on how to take care of it. Keeping the teeth and mouth clean is vital to ensure the best possible results at the end of treatment. This guide goes into more detail on how to take care of specific kinds of braces.
Maintaining fixed braces
A fixed brace puts the patient at increased risk of getting food and plaque trapped, which can cause decay. Because of this, keeping the brace, teeth and gums as clean as possible is of vital importance. The teeth should be cleaned thoroughly three times daily. Orthodontic patients should also gargle with a mouthwash that contains fluoride once each day to help prevent decay.
Patients who fail to maintain a high standard of oral hygiene during treatment are more likely to have staining on their teeth – and this could lead to a disappointing result when the brace is removed.
Taking care of removable braces
Patients who have been fitted with a removable brace find it easy to take care of. It’s a simple matter of taking out the brace when needed, and storing it carefully in the box that was given when it was fitted.
A removable brace should be steeped in a retainer cleaning solution on a weekly basis, and it can also be rinsed with water between cleans.
Caring for twin block braces
The procedure for caring for twin block braces is also quick and easy. The patient should immerse both parts of the brace in retainer cleaning solution every 5-7 days.
Maintaining fixed retainers
It’s important to maintain the areas that surround the fixed retainer at as high a standard as possible. Some people use orthodontic dental floss to do this; others prefer using interdental brushes. Whichever tool is used, the patient should remove food and plaque from between the front teeth and under the fixed retainers.
Caring for removable retainers
Removable retainers should be kept in their box when not in use, this helps to protect them from damage. Retainer cleaning solution should be used each week to maintain cleanliness.
Keep seeing the dentist
As well as taking these steps to care for their braces, patients should see their dentist regularly for check-ups. This can help to prevent any issues from becoming problems, and identify ways in which the expert can help the patient to look after their braces and oral hygiene.
Everyone, from the orthodontic patient to the person getting dental implants, can benefit from seeing the dental hygienist. Getting the teeth professionally cleaned goes a long way to helping the patient to achieve the end results they are hoping for. It also makes it easier to maintain the brace and general oral hygiene at home when the hygienist has thoroughly-cleaned and removed all plaque and debris.
Looking after braces is relatively straightforward. An expert dentist gives specific, tailored advice on how to maintain the hardware and enjoy good oral hygiene at the same time.
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