Why Routine Cleanings Are Essential for Braces

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Maintaining excellent oral hygiene becomes even more crucial when you're undergoing orthodontic treatment. Whether you're using Aurora clear aligners or have opted for Aurora ortho traditional braces, routine professional cleanings are a non-negotiable part of keeping your smile healthy and ensuring your treatment progresses as planned. At Ohmart Orthodontics, we emphasize the importance of regular cleanings, especially for patients with braces, because a clean mouth supports better, faster, and safer results.

Hidden Risks: Plaque and Braces

Braces, whether metal or ceramic, create small nooks and crannies that trap food particles and plaque. Over time, this buildup can lead to tooth decay, gingivitis, and white spot lesions, which are often permanent marks on the enamel caused by demineralization. Even with diligent at-home care, it's challenging to clean around all the brackets and wires effectively. That’s where routine dental cleanings make a significant difference.

For patients undergoing braces for kids in Aurora, this risk can be even higher. Kids may struggle with brushing and flossing techniques around appliances, making them more prone to cavities. Regular cleanings with your general dentist—and orthodontic checkups—create a safety net to monitor and manage these concerns early.

Cleanings Support Overall Treatment Success

Routine cleanings not only prevent dental issues but also directly contribute to the success of your orthodontic treatment. A mouth free from inflammation and decay allows your teeth to shift more efficiently. This means potentially shorter treatment times and fewer complications along the way.

Whether you're using clear aligners or braces, inflammation caused by plaque and tartar can slow movement and even lead to delays in treatment if issues like cavities or gum disease need to be addressed.

In addition to standard cleanings, your dental provider may recommend fluoride treatments or dental sealants to add extra protection against decay. These preventive options are especially helpful for younger patients with braces for kids in Aurora.

Why At-Home Care Isn’t Enough

Even with perfect oral hygiene habits, brushing and flossing alone often can't remove all plaque from around orthodontic appliances. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting your dentist every 3–6 months for professional cleanings while undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Patients with Aurora clear aligners may assume they’re in the clear because the aligners are removable. However, aligners can trap food and bacteria against the teeth if not cleaned properly. Regular cleanings ensure that any missed debris or buildup is professionally handled, preventing long-term damage.

Additional Benefits of Routine Cleanings

Aside from improved treatment outcomes and better oral health, professional cleanings offer several lesser-known advantages:

·       Early detection of dental issues before they escalate

·       Customized hygiene advice based on your orthodontic device

·       Removal of stains that brushing alone can’t tackle

·       Monitoring of gum health, which is critical with braces

Routine visits also provide an opportunity for both the dentist and orthodontist to align (pun intended) on your care plan—especially for patients involved in Aurora ortho treatment programs or those using Aurora clear aligners.

Tips to Maximize Cleaning Appointments

To make the most of your dental cleaning visits while undergoing orthodontic care:

1.     Bring your orthodontic care tools to appointments (such as aligner cases or proxy brushes)

2.     Ask your dentist to focus on areas you find difficult to clean

3.     Schedule cleaning appointments strategically around your orthodontic adjustments

4.     Keep track of your oral hygiene habits with a journal or mobile app

Orthodontic care is a team effort—and your role includes showing up for cleanings and staying committed to hygiene practices between visits.

Braces Are a Long-Term Investment—Protect Them

Undergoing orthodontic treatment is a significant investment of time and money. Whether you’re using Aurora ortho braces or Aurora clear aligners, routine cleanings are a small commitment that pays off immensely in long-term health and aesthetic results.

At Ohmart Orthodontics, we’re here to support you every step of the way. From early care with braces for kids in Aurora to adult solutions like clear aligners, a clean smile is a confident smile—and cleanings are essential in making that happen.