Prophylaxis / oral hygiene
No more tooth decay! Wouldn’t that be nice?
No cavities, no pain, no drilling, no fillings! And all this just through proper dental care!
How does this work? Through individual prophylaxis or through targeted individual prophylaxis!
INDIVIDUAL PROPHYLAXIS (IP)
You probably know that a prophylaxis program has been run by statutory health insurance companies and dentists since 1988. All children and young people between the ages of 6 and 18 can take part in this program.
Individual prophylaxis
Especially with “fixed braces”, oral hygiene is particularly important and a special concern in my practice. It is not the braces that cause tooth decay, but poor dental hygiene that causes the “holes”! I therefore recommend that all my patients take part in an individual dental care program to keep the risk of tooth decay as low as possible. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Oral hygiene concept for children
Poor oral hygiene is a risk factor that impairs the success of treatment. Fixed braces in particular make daily oral hygiene more difficult. Our patients receive a starter set of individual aids, which they can buy from us again and again, and are supported in proper hygiene.
Our special oral hygiene concept and an examination with the “caries detective” (DIAGNOdent®) reduce the risk of caries and thus prevent carious changes.
Professional teeth cleaning
My treatments also serve dental health. The aim is “healthy, straight and shiny teeth”. My staff carry out the prophylactic treatments paid for by the statutory health insurance companies. Unfortunately, these measures are often not sufficient. That is why I offer orthodontic prophylaxis. We will be happy to provide you with information and also carry out a small oral hygiene test.
Air-Flow
Airflow® is the “gentle cure” for tartar and discolored solid plaque, e.g. caused by food, medication and stimulants such as coffee, tea, nicotine or red wine. A gently pulsating jet of water removes plaque from the teeth without damaging the tooth structure, enamel or gums.
After this intensive cleaning , bacteria have difficulty settling on the tooth surfaces.
Frequently asked questions about prophylaxis in orthodontics
Why is prophylaxis so important during orthodontic treatment?
During treatment with removable or fixed braces, the risk of plaque and tooth decay is increased because food debris adheres more easily to brackets, wires and plastic parts. Consistent prophylaxis protects teeth and gums so that not only the position of the teeth but also dental health is optimal in the end. Professional prophylaxis appointments allow us to identify problems at an early stage and take timely countermeasures.
How often should my child have a prophylaxis if he or she wears braces?
For children and adolescents with fixed braces, we generally recommend prophylaxis appointments at intervals of around 3 to 6 months, depending on the individual caries risk and brushing behavior. During these sessions, plaque and discoloration are thoroughly removed, the brushing technique is checked and adjusted if necessary. In this way, decalcification (“white spots”) or caries around the brackets can be largely avoided.
What happens during a professional tooth cleaning in orthodontics?
First, soft and hard plaque is carefully removed from the teeth, interdental spaces and areas around brackets or attachments. The teeth are then polished to smoothen surfaces and reduce plaque adhesion. A fluoride varnish or gel is often also applied to strengthen the enamel. We also take the opportunity to discuss brushing techniques, aids and problem areas with you and your child.
Which toothbrush and aids do you recommend for fixed braces?
With fixed braces, a soft to medium-hard manual or electric toothbrush and sufficient time for brushing are particularly important. In addition, interdental brushes, tufted brushes and, if necessary, dental floss or special floss threads should be used to clean the areas around brackets and wires. A fluoride toothpaste and, if there is an increased risk, a supplementary fluoride gel or mouth rinse help to protect the enamel. We will show you exactly which aids are useful in your case.
Do removable braces also need to be cleaned?
Yes, removable braces should also be cleaned daily, as plaque and bacteria can accumulate on the surface. The best way to clean them is with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water; highly abrasive toothpastes or hot water should be avoided to prevent damage to the material. In addition, special cleaning tablets can be used regularly to reduce plaque and odors. It is also important to brush teeth thoroughly before inserting the braces.
What role does fluoride play in prophylaxis?
Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acid attacks from plaque and food. Additional fluoride application can be particularly useful for children, adolescents and patients with braces in order to prevent decalcification and tooth decay. Depending on the age, risk and treatment situation, we recommend suitable products such as fluoride-containing toothpastes, gels or varnishes and tailor the application individually.
As a parent, what can I do at home to help prevent the disease?
As a parent, you can support your child by helping or supervising tooth brushing, especially in the early days, and ensuring regular brushing times. A sugar-conscious diet, limiting sweet snacks and sugary drinks as well as fixed drinking and eating habits are also important. In addition, prophylaxis and check-up appointments should be reliably attended so that together we can ensure successful treatment and dental health.
Is prophylaxis also important for adult orthodontic patients?
Yes, adults also benefit from regular prophylaxis during and after orthodontic treatment. Fixed appliances, aligner attachments and retainer wires create additional niches in which plaque can collect. Professional tooth cleaning, individual brushing instructions and suitable fluoride measures can effectively reduce inflammation, tooth decay and gum problems – and the new treatment result remains stable in the long term.
