Effective prophylaxis during fixed and removable appliance therapy
Orthodontic treatment is not only a process of restoring normal bite conditions and smile aesthetics, but also a time for the patient to work intensively on maintaining oral hygiene. The presence of orthodontic appliances significantly hinders the mechanical cleaning of the teeth and promotes plaque build-up, which can consequently lead to complications - both local and general.
At Unident Union, hygiene education is an integral part of orthodontic treatment. An informed patient means more effective treatment, less risk of complications and a better end result - not just straight teeth, but a healthy smile.
Why is hygiene during orthodontic treatment crucial?
Orthodontic appliances - both fixed and removable - provide a retentive environment for bacterial plaque and food debris. Even with careful mechanical hygiene, the areas around brackets, arches and ligatures can be difficult to clean.
Neglect of hygiene results:
- demineralisation of enamel (so-called white spot lesions),
- caries in the proximal and cervical zones,
- overgrowth and inflammation of the gums,
- aesthetic disruption when the braces are removed.
A clean oral environment is a prerequisite for sustained treatment effects and periodontal health.
Basic principles of orthodontic hygiene
1. brushing after each meal
Orthodontic patients should brush their teeth at least 3 times a daypreferably after every large meal. Toothbrushes with a small head, soft bristles and tips dedicated to orthodontic appliances (manual or electric) are recommended.
2. use of supporting accessories:
- Single-bristle toothbrushes (solo) - cleaning the space around the castles,
- Interdental brushes - particularly in the case of metal ligatures,
- Water irrigator - effective elimination of biofilm and food residues from hard-to-reach areas.
3. flossing and cleaning of interdental spaces
Orthodontic floss with a hardened tip (Superfloss type) or silicone interdental picks are recommended to allow safe manoeuvring around the orthodontic arch.
4. rinse preparations - fluoride free, with hydroxyapatite
At Unident Union, we are abandoning the classic fluoride rinses in favor of preparations containing hydroxyapatite, which:
- is fully biocompatible with tooth tissue,
- builds into the enamel to promote remineralisation,
- reduces hypersensitivity,
- reduces the adhesion of bacterial plaque.
Regular use of toothpastes and rinses with hydroxyapatite helps to reduce the risk of white spots around the brackets and supports the natural restoration of enamel in conditions of increased caries risk.
5. oil pulling - natural hygiene support
Rinsing the mouth with coconut or sesame oil is a method taken from ayurveda that has also found favour in preventive dentistry.
Benefits of oil rinsing in orthodontics:
- reduction in the number of pathogenic bacteria,
- Supporting gum health,
- improving general oral hygiene,
- A complement to classic cleaning methods, without abrasive action.
Oil pulling should be done in the morning, before brushing your teeth. It is recommended to use one tablespoon of oil and rinse for about 10-15 minutes. Afterwards, rinse the mouth thoroughly with water and proceed with daily tooth brushing.
Professional hygiene - every 3-4 months
During orthodontic treatment, the patient should benefit from more frequent hygiene treatments than the standard - optimally every 3 months. The treatment includes:
- supragingival and subgingival scaling,
- sandblasting (with a gentle abrasive which is safe for locks),
- fluoridation or hydroxyapatite application,
- hygiene instruction and evaluation of its effectiveness.
Regular follow-up visits and professional prophylaxis reduce the risk of complications and allow timely response to abnormalities.
Summary
Maintaining good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is crucial both for the health of the teeth and gums and for the final aesthetic result. Systematic brushing, the use of auxiliary tools, appropriate rinses (fluoride-free, with hydroxyapatite), and oil rinses constitute a comprehensive model for daily prevention.
At Unident Union, we don't just treat - we educate and support patients in the conscious management of orthodontic therapy. Because the effectiveness of treatment is the sum of a professional plan and daily hygiene, which starts at home.
