Can We Do Dental Cleaning With The Dental Braces?
Wearing braces? Learn how dental cleaning with braces works and why it’s essential for oral health. Visit Inglewood Family Dental in Calgary for expert care.
Getting braces is a significant step toward achieving a straight, healthy smile. However, it also brings the challenge of maintaining proper oral hygiene. Many people wonder if its possible to receive professional dental cleaning while wearing braces. If youre searching for a dentist Calgary patients trust, its important to know that not only is dental cleaning possible with bracesits strongly recommended.
Why Dental Cleaning Matters With Braces
Braces consist of wires, brackets, and rubber bands that create many small spaces where food particles and plaque can collect. These areas are harder to reach with regular brushing and flossing. Skipping routine cleanings during orthodontic treatment can lead to a number of oral health issues.
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Increased plaque and tartar buildup
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Higher risk of gum disease
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Tooth decay around brackets and wires
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Bad breath and staining
Dental cleanings help to prevent these problems, keeping your teeth and gums in good condition while you undergo alignment correction.
How Is Dental Cleaning Performed With Braces?
Professional dental cleanings are tailored to work around your braces. Special tools and techniques allow dental hygienists to clean areas that are hard to reach at home.
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Initial examination: Your gums and teeth are assessed for signs of inflammation, plaque, and tartar.
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Scaling: Special instruments are used to remove plaque and tartar buildup, especially around brackets and wires.
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Polishing: Your teeth are polished using a gentle abrasive paste to remove surface stains.
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Fluoride treatment: A fluoride application may be applied to strengthen the enamel and prevent cavities.
How Often Should You Get Cleanings With Braces?
For individuals with braces, its recommended to have a professional cleaning every three to four months instead of the typical six-month schedule. This helps manage plaque buildup and protect your gums and enamel while wearing braces.
Signs You May Need a Cleaning Sooner
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Swollen or bleeding gums
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Visible plaque around brackets
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Bad breath that persists despite brushing
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Tooth discoloration or sensitivity
Ignoring these signs could lead to complications that may affect your orthodontic treatment timeline.
Home Care Tips for Braces Wearers
While professional cleanings are essential, maintaining a good home care routine is equally important to ensure optimal oral health.
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Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled or orthodontic toothbrush
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Use fluoride toothpaste to protect against decay
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Floss daily using floss threaders or orthodontic floss
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Consider using a water flosser to clean hard-to-reach areas
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Limit sugary or sticky foods that can contribute to buildup
Common Myths About Dental Cleaning and Braces
Some people think that dental cleaning should be delayed until after braces are removed. Others fear that cleaning tools might damage the brackets or wires. These are myths. Dental cleanings are completely safe and crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Why You Should Not Skip Cleanings
Skipping professional cleanings during your orthodontic journey can lead to long-term oral health problems. Plaque buildup can harden into tartar, cause gum inflammation, or even result in cavities around the bracketsissues that may require additional treatments and extend your time in braces.
Conclusion
If you have braces, maintaining a routine of professional cleanings is a must. Regular care ensures that your teeth remain healthy and clean while they are being aligned. For expert dental cleaning in Calgary, the team at Inglewood Family Dental in Calgary is here to help. We use specialized techniques to provide thorough cleanings without disrupting your orthodontic treatment. Schedule your appointment today to keep your smile on track.