Oral Hygiene | Bowers Orthodontics
Oral Hygiene
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile. Different treatments like braces and Invisalign require specific care routines to ensure optimal results and prevent dental issues. Understanding the best practices for general oral hygiene, as well as tailored tips for those with braces or Invisalign, can help you achieve and maintain excellent oral health.
General Oral Hygiene
Daily Brushing and Flossing
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss gently between teeth to clean areas your toothbrush can't reach.
Mouthwash
Incorporate mouthwash into your routine for added protection against bacteria and fresh breath. Use an antiseptic or fluoride mouthwash to reduce plaque and strengthen enamel.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. These visits help prevent dental issues and ensure early detection of potential problems.
Oral Hygiene with Braces
Brushing and Flossing Techniques
Brush around braces using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use interdental brushes and floss threaders to clean between brackets and wires effectively.
Managing Common Issues
Relieve discomfort by rinsing with warm saltwater and using orthodontic wax to cover irritating brackets or wires. Keep your braces clean to prevent plaque buildup.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid sticky, hard, and sugary foods that can damage braces or get stuck in brackets. Steer clear of gum, caramel, nuts, and popcorn to protect your orthodontic appliances.
Oral Hygiene with Invisalign
Cleaning Aligners
Clean Invisalign aligners properly by rinsing them with lukewarm water and using a soft toothbrush to remove any debris. Avoid hot water, which can warp the aligners. Maintain them by soaking in Invisalign cleaning crystals or a mild denture cleaner to keep them odor-free.
Oral Care Routine
Adjust your oral care routine to include cleaning your aligners every time you brush your teeth. Brush and floss after meals before putting the aligners back in to prevent trapping food particles.
Eating and Drinking
Remove your Invisalign aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents staining and damage to the aligners and maintains their transparency and cleanliness.
Tips for Kids and Teens
Encouraging Good Habits
Parents can encourage good oral hygiene by setting a consistent routine, supervising brushing and flossing, and rewarding positive behavior. Demonstrate proper techniques to ensure effectiveness.
Making Oral Hygiene Fun
Make brushing and flossing enjoyable for younger patients by using fun toothbrushes, flavored toothpaste, and engaging apps or timers. Create a positive and rewarding experience to instill lifelong oral hygiene habits.
Achieve Optimal Oral Health with Bowers Orthodontic Specialists
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for a healthy smile, especially with treatments like braces and Invisalign. Our team at Bowers Orthodontic Specialists is here to guide you through every step, providing personalized advice and top-notch care. From cleaning tips to dietary guidelines, we ensure you achieve the best results.
Take the next step toward a healthier smile. Contact us at 309-663-0415 or visit our website to schedule a consultation and learn more about maintaining excellent oral hygiene with braces or Invisalign.