Orthodontic appliances may, at the beginning or during the course of treatment, cause discomfort in the teeth; in that case, you should take paracetamol (avoid anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen).
Small sores may also appear due to rubbing; in that case, you should apply a little special orthodontic wax (available in pharmacies) around the part of the appliance that is causing the discomfort, and use a cotton swab to apply mouthwash or oral gel to the painful area.
Hygiene is absolutely essential for the proper progress of the treatment. It is true that fixed appliances retain a large amount of food, which is why you must spend more time cleaning your mouth.
Every time you eat, you must remove all food debris from around the appliances and teeth.
You should use: “SUPERFLOSS” DENTAL FLOSS and/or INTERDENTAL BRUSHES
Toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash specifically for orthodontics (unless otherwise indicated by the orthodontist).
Avoid eating very hard foods (stale bread, nuts, nougat, etc.), as well as chewing gum, sweets and gummy candies. Do not eat sandwiches or fruit by pulling with the front teeth (incisors); they should be cut up and chewed with the back teeth (molars).
If these recommendations are not followed, the number of detached brackets, bent wires and loose bands will cause the treatment to take much longer.
It is advisable to attend periodic check-ups (every 6 months or 1 year) with your dentist, unless they advise otherwise, in order to diagnose possible dental problems (cavities, periodontal disease, etc.).
Adult patients must attend the periodontist within the timeframe indicated for follow-up.
The appearance of cavities or white spots around the brackets is common if good hygiene is not maintained, so it is the patient’s full and absolute responsibility.
The appearance of gingivitis, periodontal disease, or worsening of it due to neglect of oral hygiene is the patient’s full and absolute responsibility.
Patients wearing orthodontic bands must check daily that they are not loose. If they are, they must come to the clinic so they can be re-cemented.
If brackets, tubes or bite turbos come off, the archwire shifts, or ligatures come off, this should be reported before the next appointment, unless it does not cause discomfort and there is little time until the next check-up.
