Hello, this is N.K., a dental hygienist at Uji Orthodontic Clinic. 😀
For those considering orthodontic treatment, I would like to share six key points for success. 🙇
目次
- 1 Table of Contents [Hide]
- 2 Point 1️⃣: Choosing the Right Clinic
- 3 Point 2️⃣: A Positive and Proactive Attitude Towards Treatment
- 4 Point 3️⃣: Wearing the Appliances as Directed
- 5 Point 4️⃣: Maintaining Oral Hygiene ✨✨
- 6 Point 5️⃣: The Importance of the Retention Period After Removing the Appliances
- 7 Point 6️⃣: Myofunctional Therapy (MFT) – Tongue Training 👅
- 8 We Are Here to Support You!
- 9 Dr. Yosuke Uji, Ph.D. (Orthodontics)
Table of Contents [Hide]
1️⃣ Point 1: Choosing the Right Clinic
2️⃣ Point 2: A Positive and Proactive Attitude Towards Treatment
3️⃣ Point 3: Wearing the Appliances as Directed
4️⃣ Point 4: Maintaining Oral Hygiene ✨✨
5️⃣ Point 5: The Importance of the Retention Period After Removing the Appliances
6️⃣ Point 6: Myofunctional Therapy (MFT)
Point 1️⃣: Choosing the Right Clinic
Having confidence in the technology and ensuring good communication with your doctor is crucial!
It is important to clearly communicate “What kind of smile do you want?” and “What concerns you the most?” so that both you and your doctor are aligned on the problems and goals.
At our clinic, we dedicate ample time to each stage—counseling, precise examinations, and diagnosis—to provide thorough explanations before starting treatment.
If you have any concerns or questions during treatment, our official LINE account is available for support.
We believe that addressing all doubts and worries without hesitation, and feeling confident about your treatment, is the key to success.
From a technical perspective, our team actively participates in seminars and study sessions to stay up to date with the latest knowledge and techniques. We are committed to providing reliable and advanced orthodontic care. 🌟
Point 2️⃣: A Positive and Proactive Attitude Towards Treatment
Regular visits are essential!
Once the appliances are placed, the teeth will be gradually moved to their ideal positions through repeated fine adjustments.
If there are long gaps between visits, the treatment period may become longer than initially planned.
To make scheduling more convenient, we have introduced a smartphone app that allows you to check available appointment slots and reschedule or cancel as needed.
With the notification feature, we also help prevent you from forgetting appointments. 🤦
Point 3️⃣: Wearing the Appliances as Directed
For removable appliances or clear aligners (such as Invisalign), wearing them as instructed is essential to achieving successful results.
For children, treatment may not progress properly without their active cooperation, making parental support and encouragement vital.
For adults, self-motivation and discipline are key factors. Your effort will determine your success.
Point 4️⃣: Maintaining Oral Hygiene ✨✨
Brushing before bed is crucial! 🌝
Fixed orthodontic appliances can make it easier for plaque (biofilm) to accumulate. However, brushing thoroughly before sleeping can help prevent cavities and gum disease.
During sleep, saliva production—which has a self-cleaning effect—decreases. If plaque remains on the teeth overnight, bacteria feed on it, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
If cavities or gum inflammation worsen, you may need to pause orthodontic treatment for general dental care, which can extend the overall treatment duration.
To ensure smooth orthodontic progress and maintain good oral health, diligent oral hygiene is essential. ✨
[Click here to see proper brushing techniques ↓]Point 5️⃣: The Importance of the Retention Period After Removing the Appliances
Even after achieving beautifully aligned teeth and removing the appliances, orthodontic treatment is not yet complete.
Once the active treatment phase (tooth movement) is over, it is crucial to maintain the achieved results through the retention phase.
Without proper retention, teeth tend to shift back to their original positions.
This is why it is important to wear the retainer as directed to prevent relapse and maintain your perfect smile.
Point 6️⃣: Myofunctional Therapy (MFT) – Tongue Training 👅
When swallowing food or drinks, some people push their tongue forward or sideways against their teeth or place their tongue between their upper and lower teeth, causing bite misalignment. This is known as tongue thrusting habit (or tongue posture issues).
If left uncorrected, tongue thrusting can prolong orthodontic treatment and may even cause teeth to shift back after treatment.
At our clinic, certified dental hygienists trained in Myofunctional Therapy (MFT) provide specialized guidance on tongue exercises to help eliminate harmful oral habits.
Addressing tongue habits during orthodontic treatment is a key factor in preventing relapse.
We Are Here to Support You!
To ensure that our patients feel comfortable throughout their treatment journey, we emphasize clear communication and dedicated support.
Our entire team is committed to helping you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. 🙇♂️🙇♀️
Dr. Yosuke Uji, Ph.D. (Orthodontics)
Dental Hygienist: N.K.
Uji Orthodontic Clinic
Director: Dr. Yosuke Uji