Invisalign And Dental Hygiene
Wearing braces can be concerning for some. Patients might not enjoy the idea of having something attached to their teeth that they are not used to. The brackets can be uncomfortable at first, poking into the soft tissue of the inner cheek as well as catching food particles in embarrassing ways. While we cannot offer a solution to fix every situation, we do have some good news. There are tips, techniques, and items which can alleviate some if not all of the common issues with braces. With Invisalign clear aligners, you do not need to worry about the common discomforts that go along with metal braces, wires, and brackets. At Senestraro Family Orthodontics we offer Invisalign clear aligner trays to our patients requiring orthodontic treatment, as an alternative to traditional braces. Since Invisalign trays are removable, patients do not experience the same challenges with keeping their teeth clean as can be the case with metal braces. Invisalign is to be worn 22 hours a day, removing only while eating and brushing your teeth. It is still important to maintain good oral hygiene, regardless if you are undergoing orthodontic treatment or not. Maintaining Good Oral HygieneMany people have already adopted an electric toothbrush for their brushing needs. They are beneficial for a variety of reasons. Due to the need that brushing should occur at an angle, it can be difficult to maintain the proper pressure and brushing technique with a regular toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes eliminate that issue. It is a far more effective way to properly brush the teeth and gums. Another item to use is an Orthopick flosser. It easily slips between teeth to remove food debris and bacteria. Some patients experience teeth or gum sensitivity which can, in turn, make it difficult to perform the proper brushing and flossing technique. The gum soft picks are soft but act like a toothpick able to reach every section of your teeth and gums. It is important for your teeth to be clean before you put your aligner back into your mouth, especially after you have eaten a meal. The wisp is just the solution. It is a small, single-use toothbrush that has a breath freshener already applied. Small enough to take with you anywhere, patients can brush quickly and discreetly while at school, the office, or on the go. It is important to regularly brush your clear aligner as well, or at least rinse it out with cool water if you are not at home. As we all know, fluoride is a key ingredient in anyone’s oral hygiene practices. Fluoride provides another layer of protection against tooth decay and gum disease. Make sure to use the recommended mouthwash by your dentist. Oral hygiene is important whether you have braces, Invisalign, or are not undergoing orthodontic treatment. Regular brushing and flossing is key. Please reach out to us today with any questions regarding Invisalign and proper dental hygiene. We are located at Senestraro Family Orthodontics. Call our number today (503) 228-1945 to schedule your office visit with us. |
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