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Brushing is especially important when you have braces or aligners because these appliances create more places for food and plaque to hide, increasing the risk of dental problems. Here's why brushing matters even more during orthodontic treatment:

1. Prevents Cavities
Braces and aligners trap food and bacteria more easily. If not brushed away, this can lead to plaque buildup and eventually cause cavities—especially around brackets or under aligner trays.
2.Protects Gums from Inflammation
Plaque buildup irritates the gums, leading to swelling, bleeding, or even gingivitis. Brushing well helps keep your gums healthy, which is essential during orthodontic treatment.
3.Avoids Permanent Stains
If you don't brush properly around braces, you can develop white spots (decalcification) on your teeth. These are permanent marks that become visible once the braces are removed.

Quick Tips:

Brush after every meal and before putting aligners back in.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or electric toothbrush.
Angle your brush to clean around brackets and under wires.
Don't forget to floss daily, even if it's harder with braces.

Orthodontic treatment can cause some discomfort, but it's generally not considered painful in a severe sense. Dr. Azizi will give you breakdown of what you can expect:

1. When Braces or Aligners Are First Placed
• Braces: You might feel soreness or pressure in your teeth and jaw for a few days as your mouth adjusts.
• Clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign): Mild tightness or pressure is common, especially when switching to a new set of trays.
Pain level: Mild to moderate dull ache or tenderness. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen usually help.
2. After Adjustments
• With braces, tightening the wires or changing bands can lead to a few days of soreness.
• Aligners may cause mild discomfort each time you switch to a new tray.
Pain level: Typically less than the initial fitting. Often described as pressure or sensitivity, not sharp pain.
3. Irritation of Mouth Tissues
Brackets, wires, or trays may irritate your lips, cheeks, or tongue at first.
Solution: Orthodontic wax, saltwater rinses, or topical gels can reduce irritation.
4. Tooth Movement
The actual tooth movement isn't painful, but the pressure exerted can make the teeth feel tender.
5. Post-Treatment (Retainers)
Some minor soreness can occur when first wearing a retainer, especially if you haven't worn it for a while.
Most patients adapt quickly, and any discomfort is usually manageable. Dr Azizi will give you tips on how to reduce discomfort during treatment!

Call Dr. Azizi today for your complimentary consultation!

Glenside 215-576-6414 Ambler 215-646-9514

Pushing your tongue against your teeth can have various effects on the dentition, depending on the force applied, duration, and frequency of the habit. Here are the potential outcomes:

Occasional pressure of the tongue against the teeth is generally harmless. However, chronic tongue pressure, especially in the form of tongue thrusting, can lead to dental misalignment, bite problems, and speech issues over time. If this is a chronic habit, Dr. Azizi might recommend myofunctional therapy or a habit-breaking appliance.

Call Dr. Azizi for your complimentary consultation.

Ambler 215-646-9514 Glenside 215-576-5829

 Clean Your Invisalign Like a Pro

Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is essential—not just for a healthy smile, but for your overall oral health. When wearing Invisalign®, knowing the right cleaning routine can prevent plaque buildup, bad breath, and staining.

? For Invisalign®

Clear aligners are removable, but that doesn't mean they're maintenance-free. Here's how to keep them crystal clear and odor-free:

✅ Daily Cleaning Routine

• Rinse every time you remove them: This prevents saliva and bacteria from drying on the surface.

• Use a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap: Brush gently to avoid scratching. Avoid toothpaste—it can be too abrasive.

• Soak once a day: Use Invisalign cleaning crystals, denture tablets, or a mix of white vinegar and lukewarm water (equal parts). Soak for 15–30 minutes.

• Avoid hot water: It can warp the plastic and ruin the fit.

❌ What to Avoid

• No colored soaps or mouthwash—they can stain the trays.

• No abrasive toothpaste.

• Don't eat or drink (except water) with your aligners.

Call Dr. Azizi today for your complimentary consultation--

Ambler 215-646-9514 Glenside 215-576-6414