Whether you are thinking about Invisalign , lingual (behind the teeth) braces or one of the more traditional fixed options there is one common factor which can affect the success of your treatment and that’s your oral health.

Oral health is one the most important factors in making your brace treatment comfortable and successful.

Once you have chosen your orthodontist, your choice of appliance should be based on your needs, lifestyle, budget and expectations.

Each type of brace requires its own specific cleaning regime which you will need to fit in to your daily lifestyle, to ensure you prevent some of the rare but possible problems that can occur such as swollen gums or staining to the teeth. (Read more about brace care).

A lingual appliance for example, which involves fixing brackets to the back of the teeth, requires extra care and attention when brushing to ensure the teeth remain free from a build-up of plaque. By contrast Invisalign trays are removed for eating and brushing so you can maintain a more normal brushing, eating and cleaning regime.

One of the most common questions we get asked is ‘what toothbrush or toothpaste should I use during orthodontic treatment?’. Whilst there is not a single answer to this, after many years and 1000s of patients we have tried nearly all the products on the market.

We have now been using VITIS products for some time and are delighted with the response from patients. The VITIS range of products are designed especially for brace wearers to provide optimal care and protection for the teeth, gums, lips and cheeks during treatment.  The comprehensive products on offer include  toothbrushes, toothpaste, protective wax and mouthwash.

The mouthwash and toothpaste are specifically formulated with high concentration fluoride and other medicaments to promote healthy gums and comfort. They contain cetylpyridinium chloride, an antiseptic used to inhibit the formation of plaque along with aloe vera to protect the mouth, teeth and gums. Together these active ingredients work to keep your teeth and braces clean, and your mouth healthy.

The range of toothbrushes have rounded filaments (bristles) to minimise trauma to the gums and the brush heads are purpose designed to fit around the appliances to remove maximum amounts of plaque.

So which appliance best suits your lifestyle? Well that is your decision – we are here to help and advise you on the journey to a straighter smile. Above all, whatever your choice we will be here to support your oral health from start to finish.

You can find our more about treatment and appliance options or call our treatment advisor, Leanne on 01642 554667 to make an appointment.

To find out more about healthy teeth and gums during orthodontics you can visit The British Dental Health Foundation, Oral B or Colgate.