Getting braces is an exciting step and a great way to improve your smile. Maintaining good oral hygiene throughout your orthodontic treatment is crucial because it can help prevent damage to your teeth and braces and ensure that you see the best results. Even if you’ve perfected your oral care routine at home, an essential part of maintaining a healthy smile is visiting your dentist for regular exams and cleanings. Though you visit your orthodontist every four to six weeks, you also need to see your dentist for check-ups and cleanings regularly to take care of your teeth.
What’s the Difference Between Your General Dentist and an Orthodontist?
Dentists and orthodontists are doctors who specialize in oral healthcare. However, general dentists are trained to diagnose and treat your gums, teeth, tongue, and mouth conditions, while orthodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating misalignments of your teeth and jaws.
Why Is Visiting Your General Dentist with Braces a Good Idea?
Plaque and tartar can build up faster with traditional metal braces: This is because the metal brackets and wires make it difficult to reach many areas of the teeth with a brush or dental floss leaving food particles or harmful bacteria behind. Plaque buildup along the gum line can lead to periodontal disease (gum disease) and tooth decay, which not only affects your oral health but can also prolong your orthodontic treatment time.
Cosmetic Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleanings During Orthodontic Treatment
Apart from preventing tooth decay and gum disease, regular teeth cleanings during your braces treatment help reduce decalcification. Decalcification can occur on the area of your teeth under the bracket if you aren’t protecting the enamel from plaque and tartar accumulation. Food that gets trapped under your bracket turns acidic and eats away at the tooth structure and material, leaving long-lasting, white scarring on your teeth. Decalcification is difficult to reverse once the tooth enamel has been damaged. Regular cleanings ensure no discoloration after braces are removed.
Orthodontic Care in McAllen, TX
Regular teeth cleanings will help prevent gum disease and tooth decay and ensure your efforts in gaining straighter teeth aren’t sidetracked. If you have questions about maintaining your oral health with braces, contact the experts at Senan Orthodontic Studios today
Dr. Senan K. Ziadeh
BDS DDS MScD DScD CAGS Ortho
ABO Diplomate
Dr. Senan Ziadeh, a board-certified orthodontist, brings over two decades of experience to his practice, Senan Orthodontic Studios, in McAllen, Texas. His illustrious career spans three continents, where he acquired a vast array of post-doctoral degrees, including a Doctorate of Science in Dentistry (DScD) and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Orthodontics (CAGS), culminating in his recognition as a Diplomate by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Alongside his professional accomplishments, Dr. Ziadeh is a dedicated family man, enjoying diverse activities from traveling to music.
