Orthodontists generally do not perform dental cleanings. Orthodontists and general dentists have distinct but cooperative roles in oral healthcare. The orthodontist focuses on correcting misalignments of the teeth and jaw, known as malocclusions, using appliances like braces and aligners. Routine preventive care, including professional scaling and polishing, is the responsibility of a general dentist or a dental hygienist under their supervision.
Orthodontist vs. General Dentist: Defining Roles
A general dentist serves as the primary care provider for overall oral health, offering a comprehensive range of services. Their scope of practice includes the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of common dental issues like decay and gum disease. This professional handles routine checkups, restorative procedures such as fillings and crowns, and the removal of plaque and tartar.
The orthodontist is a dental specialist who completes two to three years of focused education beyond dental school. This advanced training centers on the mechanics of tooth movement and the correction of jaw irregularities. Their work involves managing appliances to improve the function and appearance of the smile. Orthodontists do not typically perform general dental procedures, such as cleanings or fillings.
Routine Cleanings During Orthodontic Treatment
Maintaining professional cleanings remains a requirement while undergoing orthodontic treatment, as the presence of hardware complicates routine hygiene. Brackets and wires create numerous new surfaces and tight spaces where food particles and bacterial plaque accumulate. This environment significantly increases the risk of developing gingivitis, tooth decay, and decalcification, which appears as white spots on the enamel.
Due to this heightened risk, patients with fixed orthodontic appliances should visit their general dentist or hygienist more frequently than the standard bi-annual schedule. A professional cleaning every three to four months is often advised to ensure thorough removal of plaque and tartar buildup. The hygienist uses specialized instruments and techniques to carefully clean around the brackets and wires without damaging the hardware. Skipping these appointments can lead to serious oral health issues that may delay or complicate the treatment plan.
Specialized Hygiene Support from the Orthodontist
Although the orthodontist does not perform routine cleaning, they play an important role in monitoring and supporting the patient’s oral hygiene throughout treatment. They observe the health of the gums and teeth, focusing on identifying early signs of enamel decalcification. Decalcification is an early stage of dental decay where minerals are stripped from the enamel, often appearing as white spots around the brackets once braces are removed.
Hygiene Instruction and Tools
The orthodontist’s office provides detailed instruction on hygiene techniques specific to the appliances, demonstrating the use of specialized tools. These tools include interdental brushes, floss threaders, and water flossers designed to navigate the wires and brackets.
Fluoride and Archwire Management
The orthodontist may also recommend or apply professional fluoride treatments to help strengthen the enamel and promote remineralization in high-risk areas. In some cases, the orthodontist may temporarily remove archwires to allow the general dentist or hygienist better access for a comprehensive cleaning.