Oral Hygiene

We understand the specific challenges in oral hygiene that orthodontic patients face. It is our pleasure to share ways in which cleaning your braces can be both easier and more effective. By combining your diligent oral hygiene efforts at home with the expertise and skill of Dr. Iaculli at our East Cobb office, your orthodontic treatment can produce the superior results you hope for.

East Cobb Orthodontics recommends the following products and techniques to help you care for your braces or orthodontic appliances:

Interdental Toothbrush

A Proxabrush is an interdental (between the teeth) toothbrush that you may use to clean underneath and around your wires and brackets. This hygiene tool will help you to clean your braces while maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Antibacterial Mouthwash

Peroxyl is a hydrogen peroxide antiseptic mouth rinse that will reduce inflammation to your gums and cheeks, a common symptom of orthodontic patients. Peroxyl helps prevent infection and decreases irritation that may develop from your braces. You may use Peroxyl up to four times daily following your schedule for brushing. Peroxyl can be used for general irritation caused by your braces or for canker sores, cheek bites and other minor temporary injuries to the gums.

Topical Fluoride

Pro-Den is a sodium fluoride gel that helps prevent tooth decay while you are wearing braces by killing bacteria and replacing minerals in tooth enamel that have been exposed to harmful acids. The use of Pro-Den does not replace daily brushing and flossing but should be done following your daily schedule at bedtime.

Cleaning Your Removable Appliance

It is important to brush your removable appliance every day when you brush your teeth. Rinse with cool water, allow it to air dry and store it in your plastic case. You may soak it in mouthwash for an hour if you wish. If your appliance has any stainless steel wires that are joined with solder, you should not use denture or retainer cleaning tablets.

As always, contact us if you have further questions regarding your orthodontic appliance or braces care. Keeping your mouth healthy during orthodontic treatment is critical.