Straighten My Teeth

Orthodontic Care

— 01

Brushing with Orthodontics

Caring for your teeth while undergoing orthodontic treatment is just as important as the treatment itself. Don’t let your orthodontic appliances get in the way of a clean and healthy mouth!

Be sure to brush your teeth right after every meal and before you go to bed. It’s best to use a fluoride toothpaste to help fight cavities. Your orthodontist may prescribe a fluoride mouth rinse to help prevent cavities. Try to brush like this:

– Start by brushing the outside of each tooth at least 10 times.
– Then brush where your gums and teeth meet, using a circular motion.
– Brush the inside surface of each tooth at least 10 times too.
– Brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth last.

— 02

Fluoride Varnish

Fluoride varnish delivers the highest fluoride concentration possible to your teeth. After applying fluoride varnish you should feel a thin coating on your teeth with your tongue and you should be able to see a the varnish on the surface of your teeth.

To obtain the maximum benefit of the fluoride varnish we ask that you follow the recommendations below after you leave our office.

— Do not brush or floss your teeth for at least 6 hours after treatment.
— Eat a soft foods during the 4-6 hours after treatment.
— Do not consume hot drinks or products containing alcohol during the next 4-6 hours.
— If possible, wait until the next day to resume normal oral hygiene.

A thorough brushing and flossing will easily remove any remaining fluoride varnish after 4-6 hours of remaining on your teeth. You will see the same shine and brightness as before the treatment.

— 03

Eating Tips with Orthodontics

While you are wearing braces, you can eat almost all of your favorite foods. Please stay away from these troublemakers:

– Sticky foods like gum, taffy and caramels
– Hard foods like apples and carrots (cut them into pieces)
– Crunchy foods like corn chips, popcorn and nuts
– Sweet foods like cake, cookies and candy