Should I still see my dentist while wearing braces?
I’m wearing braces. Do I still need to see my dentist?
This is a common question, especially among those new to orthodontic treatments. The answer is yes. You should continue to see your dentist for regular checkups and dental hygiene cleanings.
If you got your braces here at Orthodontic Smile Studio in Kitchener, Dr. Caley monitors the progress of your teeth, while your dentist looks into the overall status of your mouth.
Why do I still need to see the dentist while wearing braces?
Your dentist remains your primary oral healthcare provider to keep your teeth clean and healthy and spot potential issues in your mouth.
Did your dentist recommend going to the orthodontist? Perhaps you’re getting orthodontic treatments upon the referral of your dentist. Likewise, your dentist can refer you to other specialists you may need to see.
Your dentist can perform fillings and other necessary dental treatments. Your dental hygienist, on the other hand, does hygiene cleanings. They both teach you how to care for your mouth better while wearing an oral appliance.
Why must I continue with routine hygiene cleanings?
Getting braces isn’t an excuse to miss your regular dental appointments. Here are reasons to continue with your routine hygiene cleanings:
Regular hygiene cleanings are even more valuable if you wear braces. Debris can easily get trapped in your braces and be tough to remove. Even flossing can become extra challenging because of the wires and brackets.
Failing to floss can make your teeth more vulnerable to plaque, tartar buildup, and cavities. If deposits linger on tooth surfaces, they become food for harmful acids. These acids attack and erode the enamel.
Even if you regularly brush and floss using tools your orthodontist recommended, chances are there will still be debris left in or around your appliance. It may be hard to spot them with your braces blocking your view.
Without regular hygiene cleanings, tartar buildup can make your teeth unsightly once it’s time to remove your braces. While your dentist may be able to fix this, it’s better to be proactive.
Developing decay or cavities can also prolong your orthodontic treatments. Your dentist and dental hygienist make sure to provide you with the care you need without affecting your braces. This is why it’s important to continue with your regular dental visits.
How often should I see my dentist?
Dental cleanings are recommended at least twice a year. How frequently you need to see your dentist can vary depending on the condition of your teeth.
There’s no special preparation involved if you’re getting dental checkups and cleanings with braces. But procedures may take longer as your dental team takes a lot of extra care to avoid damaging your oral appliance.
Some dentists take out wires before cleaning, while some work around them. Let your dentist know that you’re coming in with braces, so they can note it in your chart and save more time for your appointment.
Choose a dentist that can work with your orthodontist in Kitchener and vice-versa
Seeing your dentist is crucial so you can complete your orthodontic treatment as planned.
Your dentist takes care of your teeth, so when it’s time to remove your braces, your smile will also be ready for showing off.
Be sure to choose a dentist that can work with your orthodontist in Kitchener. Here at Orthodontic Smile Studio, we communicate with your dentist to ensure a high quality of care.
If you’re thinking about getting orthodontic treatments or have questions about your existing treatments, contact us today at (548) 800-0496. We’re more than happy to assist you.
Visit Our Location
Find us in The Boardwalk shopping centre on the second floor of building 235. We’re just across the parking lot from Staples and above Popeyes and Booster Juice.
Thinking about straightening your teeth often raises 1 big question: How long will this take? At Orthodontic Smile Studio, our team knows you want a smile you feel great about, and you also want to know what the journey looks like. It’s completely normal to be curious about what you’re signing up for. It’s important […]
For starters, drinking coffee while wearing your aligners is not recommended. You can, however, remove your aligners and drink coffee while they’re off. […]
A clicking noise when you use your jaw can have many causes, including bruxism (teeth grinding) and malocclusion (bite misalignment), but a common cause that we’ll focus on in this post is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
[…]
Every time you remove your aligners to eat or drink, make a habit of rinsing them with cold or lukewarm water, along with a daily deep cleaning to keep them bacteria-free. Here are 4 simple and effective methods:
Invisalign Cleaning System
A Soft-bristled Toothbrush (sans toothpaste)
Retainer Cleaning Tablets
White Vinegar Solution
[…]
When flossing with braces, use the flossing tool of your choice to curve the floss in a “C” shape around each tooth. You can use a floss threader to help pull the floss underneath your braces to clean deeper. You can also use a water flosser if needed. […]
Getting braces can bring numerous positive changes to your smile. But along with the excitement of improving your bite or teeth positioning comes the responsibility of caring for your braces. One of the most important adjustments? Changing what you eat. Certain foods, such as hard or sticky snacks can damage your braces, causing discomfort and […]
Can You Eat Popcorn with Braces? 10 Foods to Avoid
Discover 10 foods to avoid with braces and learn tips from Orthodontic Smile Studio for braces-friendly eating to keep your smile healthy and strong! […]
How an orthodontist corrects dental issues like overbite and misalignment. A beautiful smile is magnetic. It boosts confidence and creates a positive first impression. If you’re […]
What to expect when getting braces, along with tips on how to adjust to your orthodontic appliance. If you’re being fitted for braces, you’re probably curious how the process will […]
Here’s what you can expect after getting dental braces. Thinking about getting dental braces but worried that they might hurt? Dental braces are an orthodontic appliance […]
Here’s when children can start coming in for an orthodontic evaluation. Having a straight set of teeth improves oral health and boosts self-confidence. Teeth that are properly […]
Here’s a list of food you can enjoy while wearing braces. Your diet doesn’t have to be boring because you’re getting orthodontic work. What can I eat with braces? Obviously […]
What is the difference between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?
Hi! I’m Dr. Caley Höediono. I have noticed some confusion people have between orthodontists and dentists; and I’m here to offer clarity from an orthodontist’s viewpoint. […]
What Is the Difference Between Braces & Invisalign?
Discover the difference between braces and Invisalign and what’s right for your smile with Dr. Caley Hoediono at Orthodontic Smile Studio in Kitchener. […]
5 Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment for Growing Smiles
Discover how early orthodontic care can improve alignment, prevent dental issues, & boost your child’s confidence for a lifetime of healthy smiles. […]
Getting Braces as an Adult: What to Expect from the Process
Looking for adult braces in Kitchener, ON? Discover what to expect, including treatment time, pain, & available options with Orthodontic Smile Studio. […]