One of the most important aspects of orthodontic treatment is home care. This is true because if your child wears braces in Decatur, IL, and doesn't maintain a diligent brushing and flossing routine, they could develop tooth decay or staining around the brackets, which will mar their beautiful smile once the braces are removed.
So here are some tips for maintaining excellent dental health while your child wears braces.
#1 Monitor Their Brushing and Flossing Routine
This doesn't mean you should take over your adolescent child's brushing and flossing, but rather, do a check afterward to ensure that they've successfully removed plaque and food debris from around their brackets and wires.
#2 Use an Antibacterial Mouth Rinse
Adding a mouthwash to your child's home care routine can help flush out debris and bacteria after meals and before bedtime. A fluoride rinse may also give them added protection against tooth decay. Dr. Bret can recommend the best product for your child's needs.
#3 Continue with Routine Dental Cleanings and Checkups During Orthodontic Treatment
Your child should continue to come to Jerger Pediatric Dentistry during their orthodontic treatment to have their preventive teeth cleanings and checkups with Dr. Bret. Our team will work around brackets and wires to ensure their smile stays happy and healthy.
Consider Invisalign Teen in Decatur, IL
Your teenager may be a candidate for Invisalign Teen clear aligners. Dr. Bret will discuss their options with you and let you know if clear aligners will achieve the same results as traditional bracket and wire braces.
Aligners are removable and simplify home care because teens can brush and floss their teeth normally by removing the Invisalign system temporarily. Contact your pediatric dentist in Decatur, IL, at (217) 875-3080 to book an evaluation with Dr. Bret. And always contact our dental office if you have questions for our team.
