BRUSH & FLOSS AFTER EVERY MEAL
It's more important now than ever to follow good oral hygiene habits. We will be checking oral hygiene at each appointment. With braces, food and plaque have more places to hide.
Parents ~ don't be afraid to closely monitor brushing. Yes, even your teenagers! It's critical to the success of any orthodontic treatment. Brushing should last at least 3 full minutes. Time it and you will see that it seems much longer. This will remove any food that may have caught between the braces and keep the teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.
GENERAL DENTIST? YEP, EVERY 6 MONTHS!
You must continue the 6 month checkups with your general dentist. It is more difficult to keep teeth clean with braces. Food can cause bacteria to build up, which can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. If this occurs, orthodontic treatment must be put on hold and the braces actually removed until your general dentist restores the health of your teeth and gums. This can negate progress achieved so far and significantly extend treatment time.