Orthodontic therapy and hygiene
The tissues supporting the teeth, composed by bone, gums, ligaments and cement, are called periodontium. Most common diseases of the periodontal tissues are gingivitis, which is the inflammation of the gums, and periodontitis, i.e. the inflammation of the periodontium.
Periodontal disease, when regularly monitored by a dentist, is not a contraindication for orthodontic therapy.
Oral hygiene during orthodontic treatments
Maintaining good oral hygiene is always important, but during orthodontic treatments it is imperative that the patient pays particular attention to it. In fact, the brackets and the archwire render difficult reaching all teeth surfaces and this can lead to an accumulation of plaque. That is why teeth brushing has to be conducted in a different way when wearing a fixed appliance. The brush has to be inclined at various angles and brushing should be done from various directions, insuring that all surfaces are being reached and thoroughly cleaned.
To facilitate oral hygiene during fixed appliance therapy special brushes have been designed; their shape and dimensions allow for an easy passage under the wire and around the brackets. Interdental brushes can also be useful as only these can guarantee good cleaning of the spaces between the teeth.
