Whether you’re still in quarantine because it is state-mandated, you’ve decided that your family will still in quarantine for a few more weeks, or you’re avoiding going to too many public spaces, you may find it challenging to find a quality orthodontist during this time. Even while you’re searching for the right orthodontist for your family, there are several things you can do to take control of your oral health as well. Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind.
Choose an Orthodontist That Provides Oral Care Tips
Whether you’re wearing aligners or braces, have a retainer, or don’t have any orthodontic appliances yet, it’s important to keep your teeth clean in between orthodontist appointments. When you’re searching for an orthodontist, check out the websites of medical facilities you’re considering and make sure the orthodontic team encourages consistent oral hygiene. It’s also best to check for an orthodontic that offers special toothbrushes or teeth cleaning systems that can help you avoid plaque or tartar buildup if you’re wearing braces.
Select an Honest Orthodontist
Of course, the orthodontist you choose will want you to visit the office often for checkups. However, an honest orthodontist won’t try to convince you to make appointments more often than you need to. The right dental professional will give you the pointers you need to care for your teeth at home so you can maintain your oral health between visits. Your orthodontist should tell you how to thoroughly rinse your mouth after eating and suggest the right toothpaste and toothbrushes to protect and strengthen your teeth and gums.
Find an Orthodontist Who Offers the Products/Services You Need
If you’re a candidate for aligners, braces or retainers, choose the orthodontist who offers the dental products you need and prefer. For instance, some people would rather wear aligners than traditional braces, so if this applies to you, select an orthodontist who offers options like Invisalign. If you’ve been wearing aligners from other companies like Smile Direct Club and need to keep up with the progress of your teeth, your orthodontist should feel comfortable providing checkups and professional teeth cleaning even though you didn’t receive your orthodontic appliance from him/her.
Select a Holistic Orthodontist
While it’s very important to brush and floss your teeth daily, your orthodontist should also recommend that you make dietary changes when necessary. This is also important because you may not be able to visit your orthodontist as often as you normally would due to social distancing. If you have a retainer or braces, stay away from hard or sticky foods, and don’t consume excess sugar in foods or beverages. It’s also best to stay away from foods and drinks that are high in acid like coffee or orange juice and to keep alcoholic drinks to a minimum. Your orthodontist should also be able to tell you which foods help to strengthen your gums or give you a whiter smile. For instance, eating yogurt that is low in sugar but high in probiotics provides calcium and beneficial bacteria that make your teeth stronger and give you fresher breath.
Find an Orthodontist You Can Call Anytime
Even if you can’t make it to the office as often as you’d like, you should still be able to contact your orthodontist with any questions and concerns. For instance, if you’re experiencing any pain, tooth discoloration, or swollen gums, your orthodontist should be able to give you effective home remedies you can use until it’s safe to visit him/her in person. If you’ve been stuck trying to find the best orthodontist in NYC or other cities, you can also contact the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) to find an orthodontist in your area.
Once you find a few local results, it’s a good idea to visit the orthodontist website and take a look at a few before and after pictures from patients. This will give you an accurate idea of how your smile will improve if you become a patient. It’s also a good idea to select an orthodontist who accepts video or phone appointments so you can stay up to date with your treatments or prescriptions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
