Braces are a common method for straightening teeth and enhancing your smile. Most people, especially teens and young adults, go to the orthodontist to try braces. But before the brackets and wires are placed, the only question asked is: Does the orthodontist clean your teeth before braces? The simple answer to this question is NO.
In this article, I will explain the main role of an orthodontist, why clean teeth braces are important, and what you should do to prepare your teeth for braces. I’ll also explain to you the importance of brace hygiene and what will happen during brace prep cleaning.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
Before we talk about cleaning, it’s important to know the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist.
- Dentist: A dentist helps keep your teeth healthy by cleaning, filling cavities, and treating gum issues.
- Orthodontist: Orthodontists do not usually clean your teeth like regular dentists do, but they specialize in fixing teeth that are crooked, crowded, or spaced too far apart. They will also help you place the braces by using devices such as retainers or other devices to locate your teeth in the right place.
Why Is Cleaning Before Braces Important?
Cleaning your teeth before getting your braces is very important because once they are on, it will become harder to clean your teeth. If this happens, the brackets and wires could trap food and plaque, which will lead to cavities in teeth, disease, or bad breath. That’s why cleaning your teeth before starting the treatment is essential.
Here are some reasons why cleaning before braces is necessary:
- Better bonding: Braces stick better to clean your teeth.
- Healthy start: You don’t want to trap bacteria under the brackets.
- Prevents delays: If your teeth are not clean, your orthodontist might delay your treatment.
- Protects your gums: Clean gums are less likely to get swollen or bleed.
What Is Involved in Pre-Braces Cleaning?
Pre-braces cleaning is usually done by your regular dentist or dental hygienist. It includes:
- Removing plaque and tartar because these sticky substances can lead to your tooth decay.
- Polishing teeth to provide a smooth surface on which your braces could stick better.
- Checking for cavities to fix any problems before getting your braces.
- Fluoride treatment it will make teeth stronger and protect against cavities.
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Start brushing your teeth and flossing twice a day to build good cleaning habits.
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Avoid sticky or hard foods right before your appointment, and drinking water often helps to clean your mouth naturally.
What Happens on the Day You Get Braces?
On the day you get your braces, the orthodontist will check your teeth again, dry them, attach brackets using special glue, and connect wires through the brackets. Your dentist will also clean small areas, but it is not a full cleaning of the teeth. That’s why the cleaning before getting braces is important.
More Tips to Keep Your Teeth Clean With Braces
Once you have your braces, keeping your teeth clean becomes more challenging for you. But it’s very important for you to follow good braces hygiene practices:
- Brushing your teeth after every meal to remove food from brackets
- Flossing daily by using special floss threaders or water flossers to keep your teeth clean with braces
- Use fluoride toothpaste for cleaning your teeth
- Avoid any type of sugary foods and sticky foods in terms of cleaning
- Visit your dentist regularly for a cleaning of your teeth in every 6 months
Important: If you don’t keep your teeth clean while wearing braces, you might develop white spots, cavities, or even gum disease.
How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned With Braces?
You should visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning, even when you get your braces. In some cases, your dentist will suggest more frequent cleanings, especially if you are having trouble brushing well with braces. Don’t skip your dental cleanings just because you’re seeing an orthodontist. Your dentist and orthodontist work together to keep your teeth healthy and straight.
Why Choose Dietrich Kelso Orthodontist for Orthodontic Services?
At Dietrich Kelso Orthodontist, we provide expert dental care tailored to your needs. Whether you need braces, scaling and root planning, implants, or dentures, our talented staff ensures high-quality results for a healthy, confident smile.
A skilled dentist has the special tools and expertise to remove the tartar that causes periodontal disease. We offer personalized care, advanced techniques, and scaling and root planing instruments. Trust us to restore your smile beautifully and maintain your oral health.
Final Thoughts
So, does the orthodontist clean your teeth before braces? No, not usually. They expect your teeth to be clean and healthy before they start. That’s why it’s important for you to visit your regular dentist for a braces dental cleaning before your braces appointment.
Getting a cleaning before braces helps prevent problems and gives you a healthy start to your orthodontic journey. Remember that good braces hygiene starts with a clean mouth. You should take your time to clean your teeth before braces, which can make your treatment faster, easier, and more successful.
Follow all the steps, listen to your dentist and orthodontist, and take good care of your teeth every day. Your future smile will thank you.