Your dentist, hygienist and us

Your dentist is your primary oral care provider and it is important that you still maintain regular dental check-ups as well as visits to your dental hygienist when you have braces. In fact, we suggest increasing the frequency of your dental check-ups and cleanings from every 6 months to every 4 months when you have braces. Your oral hygienist and dentist is an important partner to Straight Orthodontics in the success of your orthodontic treatment.

Why regular cleanings with braces are so important

When you have traditional braces, your risk of cavities increases. This is because it is more difficult for you to clean your own teeth, and to reach the areas between teeth and around the brackets and wires. When there is an accumulation of food that remains, you will find a build-up of plaque, tartar, and an increased risk of decay. Remember, this cavity-causing bacteria eats away at your tooth enamel, and enamel does not regenerate.

At Straight Orthodontics, our job is to correct your bite and straighten your smile. However, your dentist and their oral hygiene team will check and help to improve the health of your teeth and gums and remedy any cavities if they are spotted. Regular dental cleanings and visits will help to prevent and treat any issues with your oral health should they arise during your orthodontic treatment.

While your dentist can help to treat any issues that arise, your oral hygienist can prevent them. Cavities form due to tartar build up, which is incredibly difficult to remove at home. Your oral hygienist will be able to remove this easily, reducing your risk for cavities.

Involving your dental team in your orthodontic treatment means that once your braces are removed, not only will you have a beautiful, straight smile, but a healthy one too!