Pursuing orthodontic treatment is an important step toward obtaining better oral health. Yet it’s important to take care of your teeth during your orthodontic treatment so that your perfect smile doesn’t arrive with other dental problems. At Tollgate Orthodontics in Rhode Island, we understand that your orthodontic treatment is an investment of time and money, which is why we strive to make your treatment as efficient, quick, and comfortable as we can. Those who wear braces are more prone to dental issues than those who don’t wear braces. That is why our board certified orthodontist wants to equip our patients with the proper information to maintain a healthy smile during their treatment.
Proper Tools
Having the proper tools can help maintain a healthy smile during your orthodontic treatment. Traditional devices are still useful, but in order to clean between the brackets and wires successfully our Rhode Island orthodontists recommend specific hygiene devices.
Proxabrush:
It looks like a small pipe cleaner, but this tool is used to brush in between your brackets and wires, and can reach places a standard toothbrush can’t.
Water Pick:
This device shoots a stream of water at your teeth to help remove food particles. It’s not a substitute for brushing or flossing, but can help amp up your oral hygiene routine by reaching places your standard tools cant.
Fluoride Products:
Any extra protection is awesome, and fluoride does just that. Fluoride helps prevent cavities, so our board certified orthodontics highly recommend using a fluoride toothpaste, or rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash.
Floss Threader:
Flossing with braces can be a little tricky. This tool helps patients floss in tight or hard to get places.
Brushing
At Tollgate Orthodontics, we recommend brushing your teeth up to three times a day, after every meal, to reduce your risk of cavities. Finding a proper toothbrush is key as well. Try using a soft bristled toothbrush that is the appropriate size for you. When you do brush, it’s important to take your time and brush thoroughly. Some individuals focus on each tooth while some divide their teeth into sections and then brush each tooth or section for a certain amount of time. How you brush is also important. Our orthodontist recommends brushing at a downward angle for the top of your teeth, and an upward angle for the bottom.
Flossing
At our Rhode Island practice, our orthodontists recommend that you floss at least once a day. Flossing reaches the plaque and bacteria that build up and get trapped between your teeth. By removing this debris, you can prevent tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, if you don’t floss during your orthodontic treatment, it can cause spots on your teeth or gums to form over time.
Healthy Diet
Being cautious of your diet can also help your oral health. Many patients are aware of the crunchy and sticky foods they can’t eat, but making an effort to stay away from sugary food and drinks can help a lot as well.
Contact Your East Greenwich, RI Orthodontist Today!
If you have any remaining questions or concerns about our orthodontic practice, treatment options, orthodontists, or anything else, feel free to contact us today. Our board certified orthodontists at Tollgate Orthodontics know how important it is to choose an orthodontist that will help you obtain the smile of your dreams. We can’t wait to help you out on the path toward a straighter and healthier smile, so schedule a visit with us today!