Buto & Alter Orthodontics
Orthodontics
Oxnard, CA, Thousand Oaks, CA
805-485-5150

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Orthodontic Oral Hygiene

Tooth Brushing Instructions During Orthodontic Treatment

  1. 2-3 times per day ... ideally after each meal.
  2. 4-5 minutes to complete the job ... do not hurry.
  3. Small circular motion for each tooth with sufficient force to remove food and plaque. Vibrate gently in one place. Avoid back and forth "sawing" motion.
  4. Brush the gums, tongue, and palate.
  5. Clean behind each wire and attempt to get brush in between teeth.
  6. Your toothbrush will wear out quicker than usual so be sure to replace it when the bristles start to fray. A waterpik can be a useful addition, but it can not take the place of regular brushing and flossing.

Recommended Products

  1. Toothbrushes: Any conventional "soft" brush with rounded bristles.
    Example: Oral-B, Butler, Reach
  2. Electric toothbrushes and/or a short pointed brush.
  3. Toothpastes: Any toothpaste with fluoride and the American Dental Association seal.
    Example: Crest, Colgate, Aqua Fresh, etc.
  4. Fluoride Rinses: After brushing rinse once per day as per instructions.
    • Over the counter: ACT, Fluorigard, Prevident, Oral-B, Perioguard
    • Prescription: GEL-KAM
  5. Anti-Plaque Rinses
    • Over the counter: Listerine (full strength)
    • Prescription: Peridex, Periogard
  6. Flossing: Any waxed tape, Oral-B electric flosser. Floss threaders will aid in maneuvering floss around brackets and wires.
  7. Mouth Guards: Available at sporting goods or drug stores for particular protective needs.

Avoiding Problem Foods

Foods that are chewy, sticky, or hard can break wires or dislodge brackets and bands. This will inevitably prolong treatment. In order to avoid broken appliances, we ask that patients adhere to the instruction of avoiding "problem" foods. Some of these foods are listed below.

  • Chewy or Sticky Foods
  • Caramel, Taffy, Gummy Candy
  • Dried Foods
  • Pizza crust, Tortilla chips
  • Popcorn
  • Sugar Foods
  • Gum
  • Hard or Crunchy Foods
  • Peanuts
  • Sweets
  • Soda
  • Ice

Foods high in sugar content pose a risk as well. The utmost diligence in oral hygiene (i.e. brushing and flossing) will be necessary to keep your teeth clean and free from infection. Prolonged exposure to food and drinks that are high in sugar content can cause tooth scarring and decay. Gingivitis or inflammation of the gums, may result from plaque accumulation due to inadequate brushing and flossing. Gingival overgrowth or "puffy" gums may result from lack of stimulation of the gum tissue. We will educate you in the wear and care of your appliances and in the maintenance of a proper oral hygiene regimen.

Oral Hygiene Overview

For a brief overview of oral hygiene tips, please click on the image below. It will launch our flash educational module in a separate window that may answer some of your questions.


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