Orthodontic treatment can be a real game-changer for those who want to straighten their teeth and improve their oral health. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows – braces can make it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and cavities.
Here, we will discuss how to prevent cavities with braces, whether or not braces can cause cavities, and what to do if you get cavities after your braces are removed.
How to Prevent Cavities With Braces
One of the best ways to prevent cavities during orthodontic treatment is to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing at least once a day. However, when you have braces, it can be tricky to get into all the nooks and crannies around your brackets and wires.
To make sure you’re cleaning your teeth properly with braces, start by using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush your teeth in a circular motion, making sure to get the front, back, and top of each tooth. Be gentle, but thorough – you don’t want to damage your braces or your teeth.
Next, use dental floss or an interdental brush to clean between your teeth and around your brackets and wires. This can be tricky, but it’s essential to removing plaque and any food particles that might be hiding in those hard-to-reach places. You may also want to consider using a water flosser, which can help remove debris and bacteria from around your braces.
During your orthodontic treatment, you can further reduce your risk of damaging your tooth enamel from a buildup of bacteria and plaque by brushing and flossing whenever you consume food or drinks containing sugar.
Finally, consider using a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities. Swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for at least 30 seconds, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies around your braces.
Can Braces Cause Cavities?
While braces themselves don’t cause cavities, they can make it more challenging to maintain good oral hygiene, which can increase the risk of cavities. When you have braces, food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped in the brackets and wires, leading to the formation of plaque and eventually cavities.
To reduce your risk of getting cavities with braces, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for professional teeth cleanings and check-ups. Your dentist may also recommend additional preventive measures, such as fluoride treatments or dental sealants, to help protect your teeth from cavities.
Cavities After Braces
If you do get a cavity after your orthodontic treatment has started, don’t panic – it’s not the end of the world! However, it’s important to get them treated as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your teeth.
When you have braces, your orthodontist may need to remove the brackets and wires to access the cavity properly. Once the cavity is treated, your orthodontist will reapply your braces, and you can continue your treatment as usual.
Discovering Cavities After Your Braces Are Removed
Even after your braces are removed, you’re still at risk of getting cavities. Your teeth may be more vulnerable to decay after having braces, as the brackets and wires can leave behind small areas where plaque can accumulate. Therefore, it is essential to follow the same oral hygiene routine you followed during orthodontic treatment, including seeing your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups.
In Conclusion
While braces can make it more challenging to maintain good oral hygiene and may increase the risk for cavities, there are steps you can take to prevent tooth decay and developing cavities while you are wearing braces. Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine, using fluoride products, and visiting your dentist regularly can all help keep your teeth gums healthy.
Additionally, if you do happen to get cavities while you are wearing braces or after they’re removed, don’t worry – your dentist and orthodontist can help you get the treatment you need to protect your teeth and keep your smile healthy. By working together, and faithfully practicing good oral hygiene habits, you can prevent cavities and enjoy all the benefits of a beautiful, straight smile.