[Bionator] | [Cooperation] | [Eating Tips] | [Headgear]
[Lip Bumper] | [Maxillary Expansion] | [Retention] | [Rubber Bands] | [Patient Incentive]

The time you will be wearing active tooth moving appliances to achieve the most optimum finished result will depend greatly upon the cooperation we receive and the response of the tissues to mechanical stimulation.

Patient cooperation in orthodontic treatment consists of the following:

• Excellent oral hygiene habits as outlined below
• Wearing of rubber band elastics as prescribed, when applicable
• Wearing of headgear as advised when indicated, 16 hours/day
• Wearing of functional appliances as advised when indicated, 22 hours/day
• Abstinence from sticky candy and unusually hard foods, particularly ice
• Immediate reporting of breakage of appliances
• Keeping appointments at the time intervals planned
• Wearing of retainers as advised
• Routine six (6) month check-up appointments with general dentist

Excellent oral hygiene is a must to keep the oral tissues healthy and free of any marks caused from prolonged plaque build-up. Our office has a special oral hygiene program developed to ensure good oral hygiene habits during treatment. It is as follows:

1. The first time oral hygiene is discussed is at the new patient exam when the treatment coordinator reviews the importance of excellent oral hygiene and relates it to the "Wooden Nickel" incentive program. A picture of decalcification is shown to the patient and the parent with and explanation as to how this occurs. The "Sip All Day" pamphlet is reviewed and it is stated that two soda drinks in a month is an acceptable amount consumed during orthodontic treatment.


2. It is recommended that the patient be seen every three to six (3 - 6) months for a prophylaxis with their general dentist during active orthodontic treatment.


3. For patients going through comprehensive orthodontic treatment, oral hygiene instructions are given to each patient the day the braces are placed. These instructions coincide with our “Oral Hygiene Program” which includes the Oral-B Triumph power toothbrush to be used with PreviDent 5000 Booster combination fluoride \ toothpaste. This prescription fluoride\ toothpaste is only for use by the patient going orthodontic treatment with Dr. Youngquist.


4. When an oral hygiene concern is noticed the tech will show the patient and parent the areas of concern. They will review tooth brushing and flossing techniques, and possibly suggest the use of a Sulca-brush and demonstrate its use. The patient is then asked to come back in one week to check their oral hygiene status and a hygiene postcard is sent out to the general dentist to inform them of our concern.


5. If oral hygiene is not improved within one week the tech will again demonstrate proper oral hygiene techniques and set up one more hygiene check appointment. At this time the patient and the parent are informed that if there is no improvement with the patient’s hygiene, a consultation will be set up to discuss discontinuation of orthodontic treatment.


6. Fluoride varnish applications are used as needed throughout treatment at the first sign of decalcification. Three fluoride varnish applications within a ten (10) day period will be required when decalcification is present with a fee charged for this service. When “White Varnish” is applied the tech is to provide the patient with the written explanation about what to avoid after the fluoride application.


7. Oral hygiene is a very important part of treatment and needs to be evaluated at every appointment with patients, and informing parents of any concerns.

After the appliances are removed, the retainer must be worn as advised. I shall want to keep you under my observation until I am sure the teeth are as stable as possible.

It will be necessary at times for you to be out of school/work for appointments. Every consideration will be given in making these appointments.

~ Dr. Youngquist & Staff

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