Should I See My Dentist When I Am Receiving Orthodontic Treatment?
Posted on 9/19/2022 by Ranches Family Dental
Many people ask if they should see a dentist if they are already receiving orthodontic treatment. The answer is pretty straightforward, although if you aren't aware of what kind of services an orthodontist offers, then this question may be worth asking.
To begin with, orthodontists are dental professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of irregularities with teeth and jaw alignment. Although orthodontists complete dental school just like general dental practitioners, their skillset and training are pretty advanced. Having said that, there are three major reasons you should continue visiting your dentist even if you have just started your orthodontics treatment.
Braces may Contribute to Risk of Decay
People who wear braces may have an increased susceptibility to decay. The reason is that braces tend to make it hard to cleanse the mouth. The arch wires, brackets, and bands provide hiding places for bacteria and plaque. Since traditional braces are fixed oral appliances, it means you cannot remove them to allow you to clean the mouth or clean them. As such, bacterial plaque may continue to build up even with regular mouth cleansing. As such, you have to see a dentist who conducts prophylactic cleaning and checks the teeth for decay and the gums for gum infection.
Get oral Cancer Screening
A dentist will examine you for cancer even when you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. A visit to the orthodontist, which is usually after every four to 8 weeks, focuses on checking the oral appliance and how it is functioning.
Extra Dental Work
Modern braces such as Invisalign do not wrap your teeth. As such, there is plenty of room for other dental work, should you require one. Some fillings can be performed without removing braces if you wear traditional braces. You, therefore, can visit a dentist to have these dental works done, if necessary.
Don't skip the scheduled dentist visits at our office even if you have orthodontic treatment going on. It will help keep the mouth, teeth, and gums looking healthy and free of infection or decay.
Many people ask if they should see a dentist if they are already receiving orthodontic treatment. The answer is pretty straightforward, although if you aren't aware of what kind of services an orthodontist offers, then this question may be worth asking.