CATEGORY 88 AUSTRALASIAN DENTIST Wearing braces can be a hassle, especially when eating and cleaning them properly. We talked with TePe’s dental expert, Dr Michaela von Geijer, to understand the challenges of wearing braces. How can dental professionals make life easier for the patient, and what needs to be done to keep the teeth and gums healthy during treatment? Many patients with braces will develop white spots during treatment; studies show a range of 2–97%. Studies also show that 1 in 2 will develop white spots on more than one tooth.1,2 The white spots develop very quickly, so it’s important to clean thoroughly right from the start of the treatment.3 As dental professionals, we have the responsibility and knowledge to guide the patient to the most suitable oral hygiene tools. We should instruct and encourage the patient and ensure that they master the technique of cleaning braces, which is quite challenging. We rely on the patient’s ability to clean thoroughly daily until the next appointment.4 tightened, can be difficult. Soft foods will be much more manageable, but one should also remember that soft, sticky foods are more difficult to remove, prolonging the acid attacks that damage the teeth. Cutting down on sugary food and avoiding sugary snacks are crucial. Saliva rinses and neutralises acids but needs time to work. Cavities form if one doesn’t give the mouth a break between meals. Are there any concerns regarding drinks? It’s good that you brought this up! Those with braces must avoid soft drinks or juices, as they contain too much sugar. Patients should have been informed that they must stick to water during the treatment with orthodontic appliances – and drink water when thirsty. What about zero-sugar soft drinks? Zero-sugar soft drinks can only be consumed occasionally and together with food because they still contain acid, which can cause erosion of teeth.5 Therefore, when thirsty, I recommend water. You mentioned extra fluoride earlier; why is it beneficial? Yes, fluoride strengthens teeth, so your daily toothpaste should contain it. I often recommend adding a fluoride rinse during the day or whenever it is suitable. There are also additional ways to apply fluoride if needed. The third pillar you mentioned is daily cleaning. Can you elaborate? The dental professional recommends brushing teeth and braces at least twice daily, but even better, after every meal. Bring a toothbrush and other special devices to work or school. More than just a toothbrush for cleaning teeth and braces is required. I advise using a try-out kit, like the TePe Orthodontic kit, containing all the essential tools to let the patient discover what products they prefer and can handle. What tools are included in TePe’s Orthodontic kit? The orthodontic kit is an ideal try-out kit for finding your favourites. Daily cleaning with a regular toothbrush is the cornerstone of good oral health, with or without braces. Here’s a one-byone walkthrough of the products. The TePe Supreme Compact™ is a twolevel toothbrush, making it an ideal allaround brush for both teeth and braces. Its multi-level bristles provide improved cleaning around brackets and under wires. It is a very nice brush for cleaning along the outside and inside of the gumline, as well as chewing surfaces. CLINICAL How to properly care for braces – tips from a dentist Dr Michaela von Geijer A photo taken after removal of braces. White spots, initial cavities visible. What is most important to remember when you have fixed braces? Well, patients with braces are at high risk of developing cavities, and gingivitis is also common. That’s why they need to care exceptionally well for their teeth, which means cleaning them thoroughly several times daily. I usually discuss the three pillars for healthy teeth and gums while wearing braces: a healthy diet, extra fluoride and thorough cleaning. What advice do you give to your patients when it comes to eating? Eating hard foods, especially during the first days after the braces are fitted or Sugarclock bad(2) Sugarclock good(1) TePe Supreme Compact™
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