Caring for Your Smile Between Ortho Visits

This week Governor Abbott issued an executive order restricting healthcare professionals and facilities in order to address a shortage of hospital capacity due to the COVID-19 issue. According to the Executive Order No. GA-09, “beginning now and continuing until 11:59 p.m. on April 21, 2020, all licensed health care professionals and all licensed health care facilities shall postpone all surgeries and procedures that are not immediately medically necessary to correct a serious medical condition of, or to preserve the life of, a patient who without immediate performance of the surgery or procedure would be at risk for serious adverse medical consequences or death, as determined by the patient’s physician.”

While our office is temporarily closed, we will continue to do our part to help “flatten the curve” and protect the health of those in our community. We will care for emergency patients only, in a timely manner, so we do not need to refer patients to potentially overcrowded emergency facilities.

We appreciate everyone being flexible during this time of uncertainty. Whether it is mandated, or you’ve placed your family under self-quarantine, we realize you may be unsure of when your next orthodontist treatment may be. Good oral hygiene doesn’t stop between visits! Here’s a few tips to continue caring for your teeth:

1. Clean your teeth (and/or aligners & retainers) multiple times a day. Whether you have braces or aligners, keeping your teeth and ortho. appliances clean is always important!
2. Use what you have at home. You likely have all the supplies you need already. A little water, your toothbrush, some floss and toothpaste go a long way.
3. Keep your orthodontic treatment on track by wearing your elastics or retainers as prescribed. Running low on rubber bands? Don’t worry. Call us to come up with a plan to get you more.
4. Avoid problematic foods and drinks and handle your appliances with care! Avoid hard, sticky foods that could potentially break brackets. Skip or limit sugary beverages like sports drinks and soda. Water is best!

???? Rinse your mouth with water after drinking a sugary or acidic beverage. Brush your teeth and gums after every meal or snack. Floss once a day. And look in the mirror to make sure you’ve cleaned thoroughly each time.

And remember, if you have an emergency, we’re here! Call our main phone: 972-335-1300, and we will return your call. We’re also available via text: 972-318-2272 or emailing: frontdesk@rxsmile.com.