At The London Lingual Orthodontic Clinic, we know how much impact oral health can have on our patients’ lives.
The 20th of March is World Oral Health Day. With the aim of promoting good oral health and increasing awareness of oral diseases across the globe, the movement encourages people to prioritise their oral health and educate them in the steps to maintaining a proud, healthy smile.
As lingual orthodontic experts, we are often asked about the details that make the difference between oral health practises for people with fixed braces and those wearing aligners.
Here are just a few of our top tips for great oral health, throughout every stage of your treatment:
Brush after every meal – Brushing regularly is a great way to keep your teeth clean and get rid of any unwanted bad bacteria build-up. While wearing braces, you are more susceptible to plaque build-up around the brackets and small food particles becoming trapped. Of course, it requires some additional planning to have the right tools with you throughout the day for a regular brushing schedule, but this will pay off with a clean and healthy smile at the end of treatment.
Finding the right foods to eat with braces isn’t always easy. Our expert nutritionists have put together several braces-friendly recipes to keep your gut and your mouth healthy and happy. Find out more.
Mouthwash – A common misconception about mouthwash is that it should be used after brushing – this is a myth.
Brushing with the right toothpaste coats your teeth in fluoride which protects the tooth and enamel, preventing decay and bad bacteria build up. While mouthwash is not recommended directly after brushing, it makes a great alternative to brushing between meals if you have limited options, helping to loosen any food particles that may be stuck and reduce bad bacteria in the mouth.
Find out more about the benefits of mouthwash when wearing braces!
Hygienist – Contrary to popular belief, seeing a hygienist while undergoing orthodontic treatment is not impossible, it’s essential! Regularly visiting a professional hygienist is a great way to maintain your oral health both with and without braces.
Did you know, we can make arrangements for the wires on your brace to be removed for a short while for an extra thorough clean with our in-house hygienist? Find out more.
Floss – Flossing can be a little bit more difficult with braces, but this doesn’t make it a step you should skip in your oral hygiene routine! Helping optimise your oral health by removing plaque build-up, flossing can also reduce your risk of gum disease, cavities and even improve your heart health.
In addition, flossing can help fight bad breath and subsequently have a great impact on your self-esteem. Another great alternative to a full brush after every meal, it’s a good idea to keep floss or an interdental brush in your bag while you’re out and about.
Maintaining great oral health before, at every stage of your orthodontic treatment, and after treatment is a really good way to make sure your smile is in the best condition possible.
How LLOC can help
At the London Lingual Orthodontic Clinic, we strive to help our patients even after treatment has concluded. As part of our aftercare package, we’ll happily advise our patients on oral health care following treatment.
By recognising that the results of a great oral health routine go beyond the physical benefits and support a healthy and happy mentality, you are well placed to enjoy your lovely new smile.
Why not get started this World Oral Health Day?
If you’re thinking of starting orthodontic treatment with us and you would like some advice on keeping your teeth and braces clean, talk to Dr Asif about the steps our team will take to support you throughout your treatment with us.
Fill out the form below to book a consultation.
