Braces - tips from an orthodontist

In order to support our patients, and anyone who has a problem with braces - we decided to share the advice of our experts so that you can help yourself at home.

Braces - instructions for oral hygiene

It is very important for all patients who are in orthodontics, that first of all they adhere to the instructions for oral hygiene.

To prevent inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), demineralization of enamel and the formation of dental caries, follow the following instructions:

• Brush your teeth thoroughly to avoid gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). It can occur in the event that dental plaque and food debris are not removed. Patients who are in orthodontics should be especially careful not to get inflammation of the gums because swelling of the gums can lead to a complete coverage of the orthodontic bracket. And that's why every time you notice bleeding gums, it's almost always an inflammation that's treated with thorough brushing.
• If dental plaque is retained on the teeth, it is possible that there will be demineralization of enamel, i.e. loss of enamel minerals. If enamel demineralization occurs, you will notice white or brown spots or lines on the surface of the tooth. This is the first stage and a sign of the onset of dental caries. In this case, read our tips: Toothache - tips on how to help yourself at home
• While in orthodontic therapy, pay attention to what you eat so as not to break the brackets, rings or wire. Studies have shown that every time a part of an orthodontic device breaks, the duration of orthodontic therapy is extended by a month.

Do not tear off food with your teeth, but chop every bite with your fingers, fork or knife.

The foods you should avoid are:

• chewing gum and candy of all kinds
• dried and hard fruit (do not bite the fruit but chop it into smaller pieces)
• all kinds of nuts (hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts)
• crispy pizza, hard buns and bread crusts
• pieces of ice
• meat (chop it into smaller pieces)

My braces lock came off - now what?

If your braces lock has come off, contact your orthodontist so that orthodontic therapy can be resumed as soon as possible without interruption.

Braces - aphthae and irritation of the oral cavity

In case you have aphthae or irritation of the oral cavity on the part where you are blistered put a little orothodontic wax given to you by your orthodontist and use antiseptic gels for the oral cavity. The appearance of aphthae and irritation of the oral cavity is common in some patients and therefore with these tips there is nothing to worry about.

Invisalign therapy - what to do if we can not immediately come for the next set of aligners (splints)?

If you need to come to the orthodontist for a new set of aligners, and you are prevented due to the current situation, we advise you to extend the therapy with the current aligner in agreement with the orthodontist. Arrange the remaining aligners so that you have them until your next visit to the orthodontist. You can wear each aligner for up to 3 weeks, but in a way that after the first 7 days, wear it every day for 12 hours.

You are in Invisalign therapy and you are on the last aligner (transparent splint) - what to do in case you can not reach your dentist?

If you are at the end of your Invisalign therapy and have reached the last aligner, wear that last aligner until you arrive at your orthodontist. Be sure to contact your orthodontist to arrange an appointment as early as possible.

If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us via e-mail or Facebook page. We will write the latest questions and answers in this text.

All Dentum patients of orthodontist Katarina Krajačić, can contact us and arrange an urgent examination as needed. Feel free to contact us:

E-mail: smile@dentum.com

Tel: +385 1 5802 333

Emergency numbers: 091 6194 652 or 091 2522 230