Should I still see my dentist after starting orthodontic treatment?

So you’ve finally started your smile journey and gotten orthodontic treatment! Getting braces or Invisalign® can be a bit of an adjustment to your daily lifestyle, and it’s natural to have questions about it. We have many new patients who wonder, “can I still see my dentist if I start orthodontic treatment”? The short answer is, yes! In fact, going to the dentist during orthodontic treatment is very important to get the best smile results. Learn more about going to the dentist with braces from Asheville’s premium orthodontic practice. Schedule your virtual or in-person smile assessment today

What’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?

All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists! While dentists and orthodontists both work with patients’ teeth, they have different specialties. A dentist specializes in the general health of the teeth, jaw, and gums. Orthodontists specialize in correcting the structure of your bite, creating a straighter smile. Both orthodontists and dentists are crucial to achieving the healthiest smile possible. If you need primary oral health care, like cleanings, fillings, crowns, and more, you should see your dentist. Your orthodontist will improve your smile so your dentist can take even better care of your dental health!

Why see your dentist after getting orthodontic treatment?

When you see an orthodontist, they will be monitoring your orthodontic treatment, but they won’t be cleaning your teeth. Your dentist’s job is to help you maintain clean and healthy teeth. Keeping up with dental cleanings and appointments ensures that when your braces or Invisalign aligners come off, you have a radiant and functional smile.

Dental invisible braces or silicone trainer in the hands of a young smiling girl.

Caring for your teeth with braces and aligners

Since braces and aligners can obstruct your daily hygiene routine, there are a few extra cleaning steps to consider. When you have braces, the brackets and wires make it a bit trickier to brush your teeth properly. Invisalign aligners can trap bacteria and food particles close to the enamel. These appliances can collect food particles, which break down into plaque and cause gingivitis, tooth decay, and other conditions. These conditions can be easily prevented with some simple steps to clean your braces or care for your Invisalign aligners. Since there are some additional hygiene steps to consider during orthodontic treatment, your dentist will help you keep your teeth as healthy as possible. Dentists have the proper tools and skills necessary to maintain your teeth, expertly working around your orthodontic appliances.

We partner with Asheville dentists so you get the best treatment

At Black Orthodontics, we believe that investing in your smile boosts your confidence and forges a path towards lifelong dental health. But it’s also important to remember that seeing your dentist is key to achieving that beautiful smile! We partner with local Asheville dentists so you get the best orthodontic treatment possible. If you want to see how orthodontic treatment could benefit you or a loved one, we offer in-person and virtual appointments! Contact Black Orthodontics and schedule your free smile assessment now!