Caring For Your Teeth And Braces
Orthodontic Care can give you a beautiful smile with healthy teeth. However, this can only be achieved with your cooperation, good attendance, and good Oral Hygiene.
At each visit we will
- Check the health of your teeth and gums
- Show you how to keep your teeth and braces clean
- Let you know of any problems we find that need the attention of your dentist
During care it is essential that you see your dentist every four to six months for a checkup. Your Oral Health needs careful monitoring, and we prefer that your cleanings are done by your dentist and not a hygienist.
Together, we are a team. We will straighten your teeth, but it is up to you to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Potential Problems And Limitations During Your Orthodontic Care
Positive results and a beautiful smile can be achieved with Orthodontic Care and your cooperation is vital. You need to be aware of the potential problems that may be involved. You are the most important factor in preventing and minimizing these problems by following the instructions we give you.
Tooth Decalcification
These are permanent white or brown marks which develop on the teeth. They occur when foods high in sugar and acid are frequently eaten, and when the Oral Hygiene is poor, allowing plaque to collect on the teeth and braces. These marks can quickly develop into large cavities that need fillings and can even lead to tooth loss. By avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks, with excellent tooth brushing, and the regular use of a fluoride mouthwash you can prevent decalcification and cavities.
Gum Disease
Swollen and bleeding gums can occur if plaque is allowed to collect around them. This is called gingivitis and can be prevented with good Oral Hygiene. However with more plaque collection the gums worsen and this leads to gum disease. The long-term health of your teeth, gums and bone are affected, and this can lead to gum recession and even tooth loss.
Jaw Joint Problems
It is best to report any problems with your jaw joints before you start Orthodontic Care, for example aches or clicks. In the majority of cases where jaw joint problems exist prior to Care, braces do not seem to make these problems worse. We will monitor your jaw joints as we proceed.
Root Shortening
This can occur as the teeth are being moved. Root shortening usually does not have any significant consequences, as the loss may only be 1 or 2 millimetres at the root tip of a tooth. Extensive root shortening is uncommon. Early identification of any problems requires taking radiographs (x-rays) during care, and is something we do recommend. If root shortening does occur we will take the most appropriate action that is necessary to protect the health of your teeth.
Non-Vital Tooth
On occasion the nerve of a tooth may die during Orthodontic Care, and this is referred to as the tooth going non-vital. This mainly occurs in a tooth that has been severely traumatized or damaged before orthodontic care. If a tooth becomes non-vital during care it does not mean that the tooth will be lost. Procedures can be undertaken by your dentist to save the tooth; for example root canal treatment.
Treatment Time and Cooperation
We give you an estimate of how long you care will take at your Consult Visit. Good cooperation and oral hygiene ensures your care is finished on time.
But your teeth may move slower than anticipated. Everyone’s bone and jaw structure is different and this affects how quickly teeth move. We cannot predict such problems before your care starts, and we will do our best to make your care run on time.
Other reasons for Orthodontic Care to take longer are breakages of your braces, frequently missed appointments, and poor cooperation.
Tooth Changes After Orthodontics Care
Changes in the position of your teeth can occur throughout life even after you have had braces. The amount of change will vary between persons and we cannot predict who will and who will not have natural tooth movements with time. This is why it is necessary to use Retainers after you care. The types of Retainers, the period of use, and your responsibilities in using them will be discussed with you at your Consult Visit.
There are other risks and problems that can occur during Orthodontic Care. At your Consult Visit we will discuss with you how any of these may impact on your care.