Do Braces Put Your Oral Health at Risk?
By Richard Lyons | Published on October 15, 2010 | 0 Comments
In the field of orthodontics, one of a doctor’s main concerns is ensuring that his patients are receiving the best oral care available to them. In addition to having straight and well-positioned teeth, healthy gums, roots, and enamel remain the most important parts of a smile. Sometimes however, patients are concerned that the use of orthodontic appliances will put the rest of their mouths at risk. According to orthodontist Richard M. Lyons, who routinely treats residents in Tribeca with Invisalign and braces, this is not much of an issue anymore.
Years ago, Dr. Lyons explains, there was the concern that people who were wearing braces, especially younger patients, would be at a higher risk for tooth decay or gum disease during treatment. The idea was that because of the brackets and bands on the teeth, it would be harder to remove plaque and food. In some ways this is still a concern, but through new technologies and more communication between patients and dentists, these risks have greatly decreased.
Still, Dr. Lyons says that when wearing braces or even Invisalign, you have to remain strict about your oral hygiene routine. For people wearing traditional metal braces, he strongly recommends a Sonicare toothbrush because the way that the head of the brush moves is ideal for getting rid of tartar and debris. If used correctly, he adds, the Sonicare toothbrush could eliminate your need to floss. If flossing is still necessary, then Dr. Lyons recommends using a floss threader (your dentist can show you how to use this in the office).
In addition to supplying you with the means to clean your teeth, in Dr. Lyon’s office, patients are given portable toothbrushes and timers so that they are certain that they are brushing twice a day for the recommended three minutes each time.
If you are using Invisalign to straighten your teeth, then Dr. Lyons says that you should remove the clear trays and brush your teeth as you would normally do. He also adds that it is important to clean the trays as well so that any bacteria is removed before they are placed back on your teeth. Cleaning crystals that sterilize the trays can be purchased through the Invisalign company, or you can use special brushes to scrub the trays when you are not using them.
Of course, says Dr. Lyons, even if you are brushing and flossing as recommended, it is still imperative that you attend your scheduled dental and orthodontic appointments to check on the progress of your treatment and to make sure that in addition to become straighter, your teeth are staying healthy as well.
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.