Hello, this is Shiba Koen / Mita SACHI Dental Clinic. 🦷

Orthodontic treatment aims to achieve the ideal alignment of teeth.
However, while wearing orthodontic appliances, food particles and plaque tend to accumulate easily, increasing the risk of cavities and periodontal disease.
It would be counterproductive to develop cavities after successfully achieving beautiful teeth. This article explains the daily self-care and regular maintenance required to achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.

Common Oral Problems During Orthodontic Treatment

Particularly with braces using wires and brackets, the complex shape of the appliances makes it easy for food debris and plaque to remain.

  • Development and progression of cavities
  • Gingivitis and periodontal disease
  • Oral odor (bad breath)
  • Surface staining of the teeth
  • Accumulation of debris around orthodontic appliances

Three Key Points for Daily Self-Care

1. Careful brushing while looking in a mirror

The areas around orthodontic appliances and the gum line are where debris is most likely to remain. Develop the habit of brushing each tooth carefully while using a mirror to ensure the bristles are reaching the correct spots.

2. Make smart use of auxiliary cleaning tools

A standard toothbrush alone cannot completely remove debris from the gaps in complex appliances. Using the following items in combination, according to your needs, will significantly improve cleaning effectiveness.

  • Interspace brush (Tuft brush): For removing debris from small areas, such as around brackets and under wires.
  • Interdental brush: Used to clean between teeth and under wires.
  • Dental floss: An essential item, especially for those undergoing clear aligner treatment.

If you are unsure which items you need, we can recommend the most suitable ones for you.
Please feel free to consult with our clinic staff.

3. Keep aligners clean at all times

Even with removable orthodontic treatments like clear aligners (such as Invisalign), caring for the appliance itself is essential. When removed, clean it daily using a dedicated cleaner to maintain hygiene.

Resetting “Hard-to-Remove Debris” with Regular Professional Cleaning

No matter how carefully you perform self-care, biofilm (debris that cannot be removed by yourself) tends to accumulate during orthodontic treatment. Therefore, we recommend regular professional care at a dental clinic.
Our clinic has introduced Airflow cleaning based on “GBT (Guided Biofilm Therapy),” a next-generation preventive program advocated by the Swiss company EMS.

[Features and Benefits of Airflow]

By spraying a fine specialized powder and warm water with a jet stream, it gently washes away biofilm and stains from the tooth surfaces and around orthodontic appliances.

  • Easy to reach debris around complex wires and brackets
  • Efficiently removes stubborn stains
  • Uses a specialized soft powder, minimizing the burden on teeth, gums, and dental restorations
  • More comfortable to receive compared to traditional scaling methods

 

*Notice regarding Airflow treatment

At our clinic, we prioritize the safety of our patients’ oral health. To ensure appropriate treatment, we conduct a detailed oral examination during the initial visit.
Please note that, as a general rule, the actual Airflow cleaning will take place during the second visit.

For a successful and beautiful orthodontic outcome, maintaining oral health during the treatment period is just as important as aligning the teeth.
By combining careful daily self-care with preventive treatments such as regular cleaning and fluoride application, you can minimize the risk of cavities and periodontal disease. Let us work together on your daily care to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.