Once your orthodontic treatment begins, you’ll need to come in for check-ins at an interval determined by Dr. John McDonald. During your initial orthodontic consultation, Dr. John will explain why regular braces appointments are important. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and avoiding certain habits can save you and your family money while preventing tooth decay. 

Why Are Regular Appointments So Important?

Braces consist of wires and brackets that cover portions of the surface of your teeth. The attachments create areas where food particles and plaque can build, which can put you at risk of developing cavities. Brushing between meals is an important step, as is flossing, but regular braces appointments play a critical role in preventing dental problems.

It is also worth noting that patients should also maintain twice-a-year visits to their general dentist. Orthodontists are trained in general dentistry, but only your personal dentist has a deep understanding of your unique oral health needs. 

Regular visits to our Salem orthodontist practice can ensure that your treatments proceed according to Dr. John’s predetermined timeline. Your follow-up visits or “adjustment appointments” allow Dr. John to replace worn-out bands, check your progress, and make adjustments as needed. If part of your braces has become loosened, damaged, or broken, Dr. John can address the problem during your visit. Failure to maintain your braces can result in an extended treatment timeline.

Dr. John will also visually inspect the progress of your teeth movement. If one or more teeth are not moving according to your treatment timeline, adjustments can be made at that time. 

During your braces appointments, Dr. John will check for signs of complications that can include:

• Soft tissue injuries
• Canker sores
• Tooth decay
• Teeth alignment issues
• Demineralization

Special Considerations For Teens

If you are the parent of a teenager who is undergoing orthodontic treatment, we encourage you to remind your teen about appointments. Teenagers are at higher risk of having compliance issues. If your child is not properly cleaning his or her braces, Dr. John will be able to tell during your braces appointments. The appointments also allow Dr. John to discuss important topics like oral hygiene and maintenance. 

Brushing Tips

• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums
• Use a circular motion and brush gently
• Brush all of the surfaces of each tooth, including the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces
• Use the tip of your brush to brush the inner surface of your front teeth

Flossing Tips

• Use floss that is about 18 inches long 
• Carefully thread it between the braces and wire or try using a floss threader
• Carefully floss around your braces
• Carefully floss around your gums and then your teeth.

Schedule Your Regular Braces Appointment at McDonald Orthodontics or call (503) 585-5400.

With regular braces appointments at an interval determined by Dr. John, you can ensure that your orthodontic treatment timeline stays on course and that you do not suffer from gum disease or tooth decay. Braces appointments are a great time to ask questions, describe problems, and get advice on proper braces hygiene and maintenance. 

To schedule your next braces appointment at our Salem dental practice, please contact our office online or call (503) 585-5400. If you are new to McDonald Orthodontics, we provide a complimentary free initial consultation.