Why You Still Need to See Your Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment

If you or your child are undergoing orthodontic treatment—whether it’s traditional braces or Invisalign—you might think all your dental needs are covered. After all, your orthodontist is taking care of your smile’s alignment, right? But here’s something you may not realize: Your orthodontist isn’t your dentist, and skipping your regular dental check-ups during orthodontic treatment could spell trouble for your oral health. At Dunwoody Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Angela Ojibway explains why it’s crucial to continue seeing your dentist during orthodontic treatment.

1. Your Orthodontist Focuses on Alignment, Not Overall Oral Health

Your orthodontist is a specialist whose primary focus is on straightening your teeth and ensuring proper bite alignment. While they play a crucial role in your smile makeover, orthodontists don’t monitor your overall oral health in the same way a dentist does. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Ojibway are necessary to ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy throughout your orthodontic journey.

Braces and aligners can sometimes make it more challenging to maintain good oral hygiene, and neglecting routine dental visits could lead to issues such as cavities, gum disease, or even tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), poor oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment can increase the risk of dental issues that may delay or complicate your orthodontic care.

2. Spotting Problems Before They Get Worse

Even if you’re seeing your orthodontist regularly, certain dental problems can still sneak up on you. For instance, wearing braces can make it harder to clean certain areas of your teeth, leading to the buildup of plaque and tartar. Over time, this can result in cavities or gum disease—conditions that may not be immediately visible to your orthodontist but are easily detected by your dentist.

Routine dental exams with Dr. Ojibway allow for early detection and treatment of potential issues, ensuring that you maintain optimal oral health during your orthodontic treatment. This proactive approach prevents minor problems from becoming major complications that could affect the success of your orthodontic care.

3. Professional Cleanings Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy

Wearing braces or aligners can make it difficult to keep your teeth and gums as clean as they should be. Even with careful brushing and flossing, food particles and plaque can get trapped around brackets, wires, or aligners, increasing the risk of gum inflammation or decay.

Regular professional dental cleanings at Dunwoody Family & Cosmetic Dentistry are essential during orthodontic treatment. These cleanings remove stubborn plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach places, helping to prevent issues like gingivitis or cavities. The CDC reports that nearly 50% of adults in the U.S. suffer from gum disease, and the risk is higher if you have orthodontic appliances. Maintaining your routine dental cleanings is one of the best ways to protect your teeth and gums while straightening your smile.

4. Custom Dental Care Tailored to Your Needs

Your orthodontist is focused on moving your teeth into the right position, but your dentist is concerned with the overall health of your mouth. During orthodontic treatment, your dentist may need to address other concerns, such as:

• Monitoring tooth wear due to changes in bite alignment.
• Checking for cavities or decalcification (white spots) around braces.
• Assessing gum health as the teeth shift into new positions.

Dr. Ojibway can offer personalized guidance and solutions to keep your teeth healthy and comfortable as your orthodontic treatment progresses.

5. Setting the Stage for Long-Term Success

Orthodontic treatment is a major investment in your smile, and it’s important to protect that investment. By continuing to see your dentist throughout the process, you’re ensuring that your teeth remain healthy, free from decay, and strong enough to support your new, straight smile once your braces or aligners come off.

Failing to maintain regular dental care during orthodontic treatment could result in issues that impact the final outcome, such as decayed or damaged teeth. Regular check-ups with Dr. Ojibway ensure that your smile stays beautiful and healthy long after your orthodontic journey is complete.

Visit Dunwoody Family & Cosmetic Dentistry During Your Orthodontic Treatment

At Dunwoody Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re here to help you maintain excellent oral health at every stage of your orthodontic treatment. Whether you’re just starting your journey with braces or aligners, or you’re nearing the end of your treatment, don’t forget the importance of regular dental visits.

Contact us today to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Angela Ojibway, and let’s work together to keep your smile healthy and beautiful!