Dental braces correct TMJ and TMD symptoms, overbite, underbite, wide spaces between teeth, and more. See Dr. Kesteven for an evaluation to improve your own smile. It’s never too late.
Dr. Cam Kesteven provides aesthetic adult orthodontic treatment. Call us to book a consultation!
A redesigned smile offers self-esteem and improved dental health. For some patients, treatment starts with braces. It is becoming more common to see adults wearing braces. With tooth-coloured brackets or invisible clear aligner trays, you can have an almost invisible orthodontic experience. An attractive smile is an asset in all peer groups in the business and social world.
When correcting a bite-related issue, Dr. Kesteven uses Gneuromuscular Dentistry principles, in conjunction with orthodontics, to find the best long-term solution for our patients.
It’s never too late to enjoy the benefits of orthodontic treatment. Call us to set up an exam with Dr. Kesteven and our team to evaluate if you are a candidate to redesign your smile through adult orthodontics.
What happens during an initial orthodontic exam?
To determine your specific needs, Dr. Kesteven thoroughly evaluates your mouth, including:
- Photographs of your teeth, face, and smile
- X-rays of your teeth and head
- Your medical health history and dental health history
- Impressions of your teeth to facilitate the outline of your treatment (allows you to see your teeth before correction)
Your specific needs are addressed in your treatment plan, providing a recommended plan for proper correction.
Orthodontic Care
While in orthodontic care, brushing your teeth gets more challenging and essential. Braces interfere with the natural chewing process that normally bathes and exercises gums and helps clean teeth. Caring for your teeth and keeping them cavity-free is a top priority during orthodontic treatment.
While proper-fitting bands or brackets usually protect the covered portion of your teeth, the brackets and wires outside of teeth make it harder for the toothbrush to clean between teeth.
Trapped food particles and plaque are a breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria. Gum disease also can develop, causing swelling and making cleaning even more challenging and painful. Improper care can also stain tooth enamel.
How often do I need to brush my adult braces?
Preferably brush within five minutes after you eat anything, whether you’re snacking or after a meal. Brushing away cavity-causing bacteria helps keep your teeth cavity-free.
Carry a travel toothbrush in a backpack, purse, or briefcase to always have on hand for brushing away from home.
How do I brush my teeth with braces?
Brush between wires and gums to loosen any food particles. There are special toothbrushes for this. Check with your orthodontist for recommendations.
Start on the outside of your upper teeth, positioning the bristles at a 45-degree angle toward the gum. Brush two to three teeth at a time using a circular motion, about ten strokes.
- Next, brush the inner surfaces in the same manner.
- Brush the chewing surfaces.
- Repeat the same process for the lower teeth as for the upper ones. Rinse your mouth as well as your toothbrush.
- Check your teeth in a mirror to make sure you’ve brushed all tooth surfaces.
- Floss daily between braces using a floss threader.
- Toothpicks, students, and other interdental devices work well under brackets.
You may also want to use a water oral hygiene device to remove food particles the toothbrush may not reach. It is used in addition to brushing and flossing, not as a substitute. While wearing braces, be sure to schedule regular dental exams every three to six months for cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
For more information about how Kesteven Dental Care Studio can help you, call us now!
