The most important part of orthodontic treatment is maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular appointments are indicated with the orthodontist/ dentist to review this. Dental/ oral hygiene appointments should be booked in with a dental hygienist/ dental therapist.

Dentists/ orthodontists should re-asses each patient’s oral hygiene and general oral health as part of any orthodontic treatment plan. If they suspect an issue, they should deal with it prior to proceeding with orthodontic treatment because the stagnation caused by wearing an appliance will only make matters worse.

Understand that there is little point moving teeth to a better position, if one or more teeth need to be extracted later as a result of decay occurring due to poor oral hygiene during treatment.