Bax Dental : Dental Clinic Macclesfield Cheshire

Dental Examination
Hygienist Treatment & Fresh Breath Clinic
Cosmetic Dentistry
Jaw Problems & Headaches
Orthodontic Treatment

The benefits of orthodontic treatment go way beyond looks.

Crooked or crowded teeth may cause uneven wear of tooth surfaces or jaws problems that may lead to complication later in life. They can also be difficult to clean properly, which makes them prone to tooth decay and gum disease.

Whilst you are wearing braces, the success of your treatment is affected by how well you care for your teeth and gums. Good oral care at home involves effectively removing plaque from your teeth, gums and braces every day. Not only will it keep your treatment time on course, but it will also contribute to the continued health of your teeth and gums.

Who needs orthodontic treatment?

Not everyone’s teeth are perfectly straight. In fact, many people have crooked or overcrowded teeth. If your dentist thinks your teeth needs straightening, they may refer you to an orthodontist - a dentist who specializes in this type of treatment.
During treatment, a fixed braces or a removable appliance may be worn to gradually move teeth to their correct position in the mouth.

At what age can orthodontic treatment start?

While it is most common during childhood and adolescence (from around age eight and up), an increasing number of adults are also opting for orthodontic treatment.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment may take from 18 to 30 months to complete. For adults, treatment may take a little longer because the facial bones have stopped growing. But whatever your age, keeping your teeth and gums healthy during orthodontic treatment will help keep treatment time on track.
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How do you keep your teeth and gums healthy?

The key to healthy teeth and gums is proper plaque removal every day. Plaque is one of the main causes of tooth decay and gum disease. Follow these simple guidelines and you will be off to a great start:

• Brush your teeth and braces at least three times a day (especially after eating).

• Use fluoride toothpaste; fluoride is proven to help prevent cavities.

• Use a fluoride mouth rinse at least once daily to help reduce the risk of cavities.
• Try to carry your toothbrush and floss with you at all times
so that you can clean your teeth even when you are not at home.

How do you clean all areas of your mouth whilst wearing braces?

At first, removing plaque from your teeth and along the gum line may seem difficult with braces. However, following these tips can make it easier:

• First, take off any elastic bands and removable parts (like headgear).

• A recommended brushing method is to place your brush at a 45° angle
to the gum. Apply gentle pressure as you brush with a short back-and-forth
motion, cleaning each tooth individually for about 10 seconds.

• Use the same motion on all inner and outer tooth surfaces.

• Don’t forget to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth,
and make sure you reach the teeth at the back too.

• Finish by cleaning around your braces, brushing first from the top
and then from the bottom. Brush gently and take care not to break
or bend any of the bracket or wires.
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How do you clean a removable appliance?

After you take the appliance out of your mouth, brush and clean between your teeth in the normal way. Then, using your toothbrush and toothpaste, clean your appliance, rinsing thoroughly with water afterwards.

How do you floss with fixed braces?

Flossing removes the plaque between your teeth and under your gum line – areas beyond the reach of your toothbrush. If you don’t floss, you leave up to 40% of your tooth surfaces untouched and unclean.

• Choose a ”threading floss” with a stiffened end
that threads it through the gap between each tooth.

• Curve the floss around each tooth in a “c” shape and gently move
it up and down the side of each tooth, including under the gum line.
Unroll a new section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.

Do you still need to see your regular dentist?

Yes, your dentist and orthodontist will work together with you to help you do the best job possible in caring for your teeth and gums.

Wearing the braces requires patience and discipline. However, the result of treatment can be more then just healthy smile. Often your orthodontist is preventing bigger problems in the long –term health of your teeth and gums.

*Information courtesy of the British Dental Association and Smiles r us.

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