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A service unique to our office is our CARE PROGRAM. It is critical to learn early in orthodontic treatment how to take care of your teeth and appliances. Patients who do not learn early run the risk, when the appliances are removed, of having a smile that is well arranged, but unsightly due to the oral hygiene problems.

The CARE PROGRAM presents this needed information in a lively and upbeat format. Patients, parents and friends have fun while receiving tips for better oral hygiene care that can make a big difference in their ultimate orthodontic result.

Therefore, we request that each patient newly in orthodontic appliances attend one of our CARE PROGRAMS. He or she is encouraged to bring a friend, as we designed the session to be of benefit for anyone, regardless of whether or not he or she has orthodontic appliances. Even Mom and Dad will enjoy and gain valuable information.

By your child's participation in this program, you can ensure that maximum lifelong benefits are received from your investment in orthodontic treatment.


BRUSHING
Once your receive your orthodontic appliances, you need to be particularly careful about your oral hygiene. Braces provide a great environment for trapping and hiding food particles and make it difficult to brush away plaque, which is the layer of harmful bacteria that attack your teeth and gums.

Brushing within five minutes of every meal and snack is the best way to prevent plaque build-up and tooth decay. When you are not at home, it is a good idea to carry a travel toothbrush kit. Once daily, you should brush thoroughly and carefully, following the five steps of brushing that we teach in our Care Program.


FLOSSING
Brushing alone won't keep your teeth entirely free of plaque since brushing can't clean between your teeth. Flossing at least once a day is the best way to prevent a plaque build-up between your teeth and between the teeth and gums. Dental floss actually polishes your teeth and makes it hard for food to stick to them.

Floss threaders are a valuable tool for orthodontic patients as flossing can be a bit tricky for braces wearers.


FLUORIDE RINSE OR GEL
We strongly encourage the use of a fluoride rinse or gel daily. This can be used as an additional supplement even if you are brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and getting fluoride treatments topically from your dentist.

Daily fluoride rinsing or application of fluoride gel after thoroughly brushing provides important additional protection with its flooding action, including areas which are difficult for patients to keep clean. The best time of day for this fluoride application is the last brushing you do in the evening; that way the fluoride can provide protection while you sleep.


HELPFUL OPTIONAL TOOLS
Several appliances are effective oral hygiene devices, not only for orthodontic patients, but for all members of the family and therefore may be a worthwhile investment. Water irrigators are useful when used on low pressure, as are mechanical toothbrushing and interproximal tooth and gum cleaning devices.