At Dietrich Orthodontics, we’ve been providing family-centered orthodontic care for over 40 years, and we’re just as passionate about creating beautiful, healthy smiles now as when we began. With two convenient locations in Canton and Alliance, our team combines experience, advanced technology, and modern treatment options to serve patients of all ages.
But even with the best treatment plan and tools, there’s one essential piece of the puzzle we can’t provide directly — your care at home.
Why What You Do Between Visits Matters
Orthodontic treatment is a team effort. While we handle adjustments and monitor progress in-office, your daily habits play a major role in the success of your treatment. Whether you’re wearing braces or clear aligners, consistent at-home care and compliance can shorten treatment time, prevent setbacks, and lead to better results.
Skipping good oral hygiene or ignoring appliance instructions can lead to:
- Delays in treatment
- Increased risk of cavities or gum inflammation
- Unwanted tooth movement
- Extended time in braces or aligners
Here’s how to care for your smile between appointments to stay on track.
1. Level Up Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Braces create extra places for food and plaque to hide, so maintaining great dental hygiene is more important than ever. Here’s how to keep your teeth and gums in top shape:
Daily Hygiene Tips for Braces Wearers:
- Brush after every meal or snack, especially around brackets and wires.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and clean every surface of every tooth — not just the front.
- Floss daily with floss threaders or orthodontic floss picks to clean between teeth and around wires.
- Rinse with water if you can’t brush immediately.
- Use fluoride or antimicrobial mouthwash once daily.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months, or after illness.
These habits help prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease, all of which can interfere with your orthodontic progress.
2. Don’t Skip Your Dentist Visits
It’s easy to assume your orthodontist has all your dental needs covered, but your family dentist still plays an important role. Even while undergoing orthodontic treatment, you should:
- Visit your dentist every 6 months for cleanings and check-ups
- Let your dentist know about your appliances so they can adjust their cleaning approach
- Follow any cavity-prevention guidance they give, especially if you’re at higher risk
Regular dental exams help catch small problems before they become big setbacks in your treatment timeline.
3. Build a Braces Care Kit To-Go
Whether you’re heading to school, practice, or just running errands around Canton or Alliance, having a braces care kit on hand can help you manage small issues before they become big distractions.
What to Pack:
- Travel-size toothbrush + fluoride toothpaste
- Orthodontic wax (for poking wires or irritation)
- Extra elastics (if prescribed)
- Dental floss or ortho picks
- Lip balm (to ease dry lips from braces)
- Small cup or water bottle for rinsing
- An unsharpened pencil (the eraser can push a wire back in place gently)
Keep this kit in your bag, locker, or car so you’re always prepared, especially during long school days or weekend outings.
4. Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions — Every Day
Every patient’s treatment plan is unique, which means Dr. Dietrich’s instructions are tailored specifically to your smile. Following those instructions in between appointments is one of the most important things you can do.
Whether it’s:
- Wearing elastics exactly as directed
- Avoiding certain foods that can damage braces
- Using retainers after treatment
- Keeping appliances clean and intact
Your consistency directly impacts your final results. Missing steps may not seem like a big deal, but even small lapses can cause delays or misalignment.
Keep Your Smile Healthy Between Visits
A great smile starts in our office but stays healthy because of what you do at home. By brushing and flossing regularly, visiting your family dentist, staying prepared, and following Dr. Dietrich’s recommendations, you’ll protect your progress and get the most out of your treatment.
Have questions about your care in between appointments? Need a quick check or an adjustment?
Reach out to our team in Canton or Alliance today to schedule your next visit or consultation — we’re always happy to help you stay on track toward your best smile.