Oral Hygiene

Oral HygienePinehurst, NC

Patients wearing braces need to be very vigilant when it comes to keeping their braces, teeth and gums clean. By following our instructions on oral hygiene and by avoiding certain foods, you can maintain healthy teeth and a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime. Remember plaque is the enemy. If plaque is left on your teeth and/or around your braces, you can develop swollen gums, bad breath, scarred & discolored teeth, and even cavities.

Brush Correctly

You should brush after each meal and before bed. At the least you must brush after breakfast and before bed.

Spend the necessary time needed to brush your teeth correctly. (A two minute timer can be very helpful.)

Be thorough. Brush every surface of every tooth including your gums and braces.

Look in a mirror while brushing to insure that you are brushing correctly. Be extra careful with the spaces between your braces and gums. These areas are most susceptible to problems.

Flossing, at least once a day, is essential.

Flossing is the best way to remove plaque from the side surfaces of your teeth. Swelling of the gum tissue can be prevented and reversed by daily flossing and tooth-brush stimulation. Please note that swollen gums act as a barrier to tooth movement and will slow your orthodontic progress. Some orthodontic movements are impossible to achieve when the gums are inflamed.

Additional Recommendations

Electric toothbrushes such as the Sonicare may be more efficient if used properly.

Water Piks can be helpful in removing food particles that are difficult to reach but are NOT a substitute for brushing.

Rinsing with Listerine in the mornings and especially at night will reduce the plaque build up on your teeth. Younger children will benefit from using Listerine Smart Rinse.

Listerine Agent Cool Blue for kids is useful in establishing correct brushing techniques. When used before brushing, it tints teeth blue so kids pay attention when cleaning their teeth … plus it makes brushing fun!

Regular dental cleanings every 4-6 months are essential during orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign Near Me: How A Straighter Smile May Help Your Career

When someone searches the phrase "Invisalign® near me," they often want a nearly invisible option to straighten their teeth, but there is more at stake than just alignment. A well-aligned smile can impact how others perceive professionalism, trustworthiness, and social ease. In many careers, first impressions and clear communication carry weight, and a straight smile…

Signs Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early orthodontic treatment makes it possible to spot and correct dental issues in children. With this proactive care, an orthodontist can guide jaw growth, improve tooth alignment, and lower the chance of more complex treatment later on. Recognizing the common signs that a child could benefit from early orthodontic treatment can support a healthy, confident…

Dental Braces: Types And Applications

Dental braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments used to correct misaligned teeth. They improve both your oral function and appearance. With advancements in orthodontics, patients now have access to a range of options tailored to individual needs.Traditional metal braces are the most commonly used type of orthodontic treatment and have been the…

Advice On Clear Braces For Kids

A dentist might recommend clear braces for kids if your child has developed orthodontic issues. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends bringing in your child for their first appointment with an orthodontist by the time they are 7 years old.At this point, their smile should be developed, even if they still have some of their…

5 Questions To Ask An Invisalign Dentist

Choosing the right Invisalign® dentist is crucial when considering this braces alternative. To ensure the treatment effectively and discreetly straightens your teeth and aligns with your individual needs, careful selection of your dentist is essential. Asking the right questions will help ensure that patients receive the best care and achieve optimal results. Below are five…