Tooth decay when wearing braces - Don't let your teeth be damaged because of subjectivity, the doctor divides 3 safe treatments

Tooth decay with braces is a concern for many people. Many people are afraid that braces will make oral hygiene difficult, thereby increasing the risk of tooth decay and other diseases. So are braces really more susceptible to cavities? What should I do if I accidentally get tooth decay during the braces process?

Doctor Ngoc Anh -Lac Viet Intech dentistrywill answer in detail about the problem of tooth decay during braces, and give you advice to have the safest and most effective orthodontic journey.

Are Braces Prone to Tooth Cavities?

According to experts, braces do not directly causecavities. teeth. However, wearing braces and orthodontic appliances will create more "nooks and crannies", making it easier for food and plaque to accumulate. If not cleaned thoroughly, bacteria will grow and attack tooth enamel, causing tooth decay.

The main cause of tooth decay with braces is usually due to:

• Improper oral hygiene:This is the leading cause. Many people do not master advanced oral hygiene when wearing braces, leading to missing plaque between teeth, around brackets and wires.

• Not following the regular follow-up schedule:Regular check-ups every 3-4 weeks not only help the doctor check and adjust tooth tightening force, but also provide an opportunity to early detect problems such as tooth decay and gingivitis. If re-examination is delayed, the disease may become more severe.

• Improper diet:Regularly eating foods high in sugar, starch, carbonated drinks... will create a favorable environment for tooth decay bacteria to grow.

It can be seen that tooth decay with braces is due to the habits of the person wearing braces, not due to the nature of braces. Therefore, you can completely prevent this condition if you know how to properly care for your teeth.

How to Treat Tooth Decay with Braces Depends on the Level

Depending on the time and level of tooth decay, the doctor will have a suitable treatment regimen.

1. Tooth decay before braces

Before braces are installed, customers will have X-rays (CT Conebeam), digital tooth scans and clinical examinations. The doctor will detect dental diseases such as tooth decay, gingivitis, pulpitis...

• Mild tooth decay (only white spots on tooth enamel):Only need to apply fluoride to remineralize, no intervention is needed.

• Moderate tooth decay (small cavities appear):Perform tooth filling before braces. Some dentists provide free filling or filling support.

• Severe tooth decay (pulp damage):Requires root canal treatment, then porcelain crown to ensure durability during the orthodontic process.

With mild tooth decay, the doctor only needs to apply fluoride to remineralize, no intervention is needed.

If the tooth decay is seriously destroyed, the doctor may prescribe extraction and inclusion in an appropriate orthodontic plan.

2. Tooth Cavities During Braces

Braces are a long process, lasting 1-3 years. Therefore, the emergence of problems such as tooth decay, gingivitis... is entirely possible. However, if you have a follow-up appointment on time, the doctor will easily detect and treat it early.

• Early detection of white spots:If the doctor notices early signs of tooth decay such as white spots on the tooth surface, you will be appliedvial of fluororenamel remineralizationto prevent and stop cavities from progressing.

• Mild tooth decay:If cavities have already formed, the doctor will proceed.remove braces, clean and fill teeth. Once completed, the braces will be reattached. This process is often performed for free at reputable dentists to ensure treatment progress and quality.

• Gingivitis, gingivitis:This condition is also quite common with braces. The doctor will provide free hygiene and treatment instructions to avoid more serious complications.

3. Tooth Decay After Braces Removal

Although oral hygiene becomes easier, white spots caused by braces still need to be monitored and treated. The doctor will do a general check-up and apply prophylactic fluoride for you.

Secrets to Effectively Prevent Tooth Caries When Braces

Prevention is better than cure, below are the golden secrets to help you prevent cavities and have a successful braces journey.

1. Intensive Dental Hygiene

Thorough cleaning is the most important factor. You need a specialized set of tools such as a water flosser, interdental brush, dental floss, soft bristle brush and mouthwash for comprehensive cleaning. The process should be in order: use a water flosser first, then an interdental brush and dental floss to remove plaque, and finally brush your teeth and rinse your mouth.

Use a water flosser to clean away food particles

2. Comply with the Regular Follow-Up Schedule

It is extremely important to have on-time check-ups every 3-4 weeks. The doctor not only adjusts the tooth tightening force but also does a general check, early detection and timely treatment of dental problems, ensuring the effectiveness and safety of the braces process.

3. Healthy Diet

Limit foods that are too hard, chewy, sticky, sweet, and carbonated drinks. Increase your intake of green vegetables, fruits, foods rich in calcium and vitamins to strengthen your oral health.

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Conclusion

Tooth decayis a completely preventable problem if you follow your doctor's instructions and take proper care of your teeth. Be proactive with thorough oral hygiene, eat scientifically and have scheduled follow-up visits so that your braces journey goes smoothly and brings the best results.