Q: I just got braces. Do I need to see my general dentist for my regular 6 month cleaning appointments or should I just wait until after they are removed?
A: Practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your general dentist on a regular basis are key components in maintaining the health of your dentition. While wearing braces, it is just as important to follow a strict oral hygiene regimen at home and to visit your dentist at least every six months in order to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Your dentist and hygienist can still clean and care for your teeth effectively even while you are wearing braces, and along with your orthodontist, can keep a close watch to make sure that your teeth and gums remain healthy throughout orthodontic treatment. It may seem like a good idea to wait until your braces are removed to have your teeth cleaned and examined, but orthodontic treatment can take as long as 18-24 months. During that time period it is essential to visit your general dentist regularly to ensure that your oral health is maintained not only throughout your orthodontic treatment, but for your lifetime as well.
Daniel Sawrie, DDS, M.S.
Sawrie Orthodontics
1612 Gunbarrel Rd., Suite 100
Chattanooga, TN 37421
(423) 624-8217
sawrieortho.com
