Conclusion

Orthodontic patients face a difficult challenge in adequate plaque removal to prevent dental caries and periodontal disease. The dental professional can assist in the prevention of disease through education, demonstration, and a better understanding of orthodontic needs. The more knowledge about orthodontics the dental professional can apply to treatment and homecare recommendations, the better chance the patient has in attaining a beautiful smile free of unnecessary dental caries and gum disease manifested from lack of satisfactory plaque removal.

By making educated decisions regarding home care recommendations through the knowledge of the variety of toothbrushes, adjuncts, and products, the dental professional can make the difference in the orthodontic patient’s achievement of optimal oral health.