8rushing care during orthodontic treatment

"The modified method has a few minor tweaks, but
patients have had no problem fitting it into their
established oral hygiene habits," said Port, who
offers clients Invisalign. Gurnee orthodontists at
Affiliated suggest a seven-step process: • Use 2 cm of fluoride toothpaste on a wet toothbrush
• Spread the toothpaste evenly in both arches • Brush carefully for 2 minutes • Take a sip of water, or one full hand, and "swish" it around with the toothpaste remaining in the
mouth for 30 seconds before spitting
• Do not do any other rinsing with water • Avoid eating and drinking for 2 hours • Brush twice a day, after breakfast and before bed The American Journal of Orthodontics and
Dentofacial Orthopedics published an article in the
September 2010 issue that said this technique
resulted in five times fewer carious lesions in the at
high risk for cavities population they studied. "This process works because the modified
instructions increase how much and how long the
fluoride is in the oral cavity, which is what helps
protect teeth from cavity-causing bacteria," said
Klein, Gurnee orthodontics provider
(www.affiliateddentalspecialists.com/ orthodontics.php). Dentists and orthodontists emphasize the
importance of proper and diligent oral health care,
especially during orthodontic treatment, because
cavities can form around the brackets and
appliances, damaging teeth and causing white
lesions. The Gurnee, IL invisible braces experts, Klein and Port, also tell patients to floss daily and
get regular exams and cleanings for optimal oral
health. For more information about oral health and proper
care of teeth during orthodontic treatment, visit the
American Association of Orthodontics website.