Braces and Oral Hygiene: What You Need to Know
Braces require extra attention to maintain proper oral hygiene. If a patient is not dedicated to this routine, the teeth and gums can suffer. Those with braces or an orthodontic appliance are at greater risk of tooth decay and gum issues. What may ensue as a result of poor oral hygiene (OH) with braces? Here’s what the best orthodontist Northville MI has to say.
Why Is Oral Hygiene Crucial During Orthodontic Treatment?
Excellent OH is essential to ensuring that orthodontic treatment reaches its desired effect. While the general goal of orthodontics is to achieve an ideal bite and aligned teeth, your trusted orthodontist in Livonia will not do so at the expense of the longevity of those teeth. A persistent lack of oral hygiene may necessitate stopping or delaying treatment until the habit improves, giving the patient time to change their routine and have their general dentist intervene as needed.
Common Issues Caused by Poor Oral Hygiene with Braces
Gingivitis
Poor oral hygiene will present itself as gingivitis. A patient may feel that their gums are growing down towards their brackets. While braces may cause slight swelling with no bleeding, largely inflamed and bleeding gums indicate a more significant issue, gingivitis. The buildup of plaque beneath the gum line allows bacteria to fester causing diseased and visually unappealing gums.
Untreated gingivitis can lead to the following issues:
- Pus filled abscesses
- Periodontitis
- Tooth loss
Decalcification
Decalcification of the enamel can also occur if a patient has a tendency to drink sugary or acidic drinks over an extended period of time without proper cleaning.
How to Avoid Problems with Braces in Oral Health
To minimize complications during your orthodontic treatment, here is some advice from the best orthodontist in Northville MI:
- Brush regularly: Clean around brackets and wires using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Floss daily: Flossing with braces may be challenging but using tools such as floss threaders helps
- Avoid sugary and acidic drinks: These tend to cause erosion of enamel, increasing the possibility of decalcification.
- Attend regular check-ups: Your orthodontist in Northville MI will monitor your progress and address any hygiene concerns.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your mouth healthy is a huge part of having a successful orthodontic treatment. If you forget to brush your teeth, you are risking the possibility of severe problems like gingivitis, decalcification, and even loss of teeth. If you are concerned about oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment, consult Masri Orthodontics. A trusted ORTHODONTIST NORTHVILLE for personal guidance and assistance.
