A Reason to Get Orthodontic Treatment – Crooked Teeth Are Harder to Clean

Orthodontic treatment is offered by general dentists in an effort to correct abnormalities with the teeth and the jaw. Of course, crooked or crowding teeth can poorly affect one's ability to eat, smile, and even speak. Another aspect that most people do not realize is that oral hygiene can be extremely difficult too, which is why orthodontic treatment is so crucial. Keep reading to find out more!

Getting orthodontic treatment to improve oral hygiene routine

Below is a quick overview of why it may be a good idea to get orthodontic treatment when struggling with teeth cleaning. This information may be helpful to those who are having a hard time with oral hygiene.

The importance of oral hygiene

Oral hygiene is key at all times as it keeps the teeth and gums in good, healthy shape. Without oral hygiene, the teeth may decay, which can also poorly affect the gums by infecting them. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing are all key factors in a good oral hygiene routine; however, when the teeth are crooked, crowded, or gapped, it may be difficult to achieve a good routine. 

How orthodontic treatment can help

When the teeth are struggling from crowding, crookedness, or gaps, it can be extremely difficult to clean the teeth in a proper manner. For example, some areas may be hard to reach, which can lead to build-up that turns into cavities. Orthodontic treatment can help make the teeth easier to clean by closing gaps, correcting crooked teeth, or evening out any crowding.

Oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment and after

Once orthodontic treatment begins, the general dentist can provide specific recommendations to help ensure that oral hygiene routines go smoothly. The orthodontic treatment type will determine the best oral hygiene routine. However, for the most part, it will be recommended to brush after every meal and to floss at least once a day. Rinsing is also a good idea to do after eating because it helps prevent a build-up of excess food debris that could turn into cavities.

Of course, it may be difficult to abide by the specific guidelines that the dentist provides due to crookedness, crowding, or the actual orthodontic treatment; however, it is advised to do as best as possible to ensure that the teeth remain healthy. 

After orthodontic treatment is complete, it will be a lot easier to perform a solid oral hygiene routine. The intended result of orthodontic treatment is to have straightened and even teeth, which will make life a lot easier! Not only will oral hygiene be easier, but eating and smiling should be too. There should be fewer hard-to-reach areas, resulting in less of a chance that food will get stuck, thus preventing cavities from forming. 

Talk to a general dentist

When in need of orthodontic treatment to make oral hygiene easier, the best thing to do is consult directly with a general dentist. The dentist can evaluate the crooked or crowding teeth and determine what type of orthodontic treatment is most suitable. From there, any questions or concerns can be appropriately addressed. To find out more about orthodontics or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out today. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.cottrellsmilesva.com or call Richard Cottrell, DDS & Associates at (540) 808-1303 for an appointment in our King George office.

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