Braces straighten teeth and correct bite problems, but existing cavities can delay your treatment timeline.
This in-depth guide answers your questions and offers insightful information addressing whether you can get braces with cavities.
You will learn about potential risks associated with orthodontic treatment and the effect cavities might have on it. We’ll discuss how you can get braces even if you have cavities, alternate forms of treatment, and the importance of seeing an orthodontist.
We will go over the best oral hygiene practices and dietary considerations to maintain good oral health while having braces and managing cavities.
Can You Get Braces with Cavities?
While you can get braces if you have cavities, it’s better to take care of them either before or during orthodontic therapy. Because cleaning around braces is challenging, existing cavities often get worse during treatment. Thus, get your cavities treated by a dentist before beginning treatment for good results and to avoid problems.
How can cavities affect the orthodontic treatment process?
Untreated cavities create several problems during orthodontic treatment:
- Delayed Treatment: You’ll face treatment delays because most orthodontists require cavity-free teeth before placing braces.
- Increased Discomfort: Cavities cause sensitivity and pain, which becomes even more uncomfortable when combined with the pressure from braces.
- Risk of Infection: Untreated cavities can lead to infections, which can spread and affect overall oral health.
Risks and complications of getting braces with cavities
Treatment Length: Treating cavities during treatment prolongs the treatment period.
Increased Cost: Treating cavities in addition to orthodontic treatment can increase the overall cost.
Tooth Damage: The pressure exerted by braces on weak teeth with cavities can increase the risk of tooth fractures or breakage.
Importance of addressing cavities before getting braces
Stronger Teeth: When you treat cavities first, your teeth become strong enough to handle the pressure from braces.
Smoother treatment: When you handle cavities first, your orthodontic treatment progresses faster and more efficiently.
Reduced Discomfort: Addressing cavities before braces can prevent additional pain and sensitivity.
Long-Term Oral Health: Treating cavities before orthodontic treatment improves general oral health and the durability of orthodontic results.
Options for Getting Braces with Cavities
When it comes to effectively treating cavities and considering your braces, there are several choices available.
Prioritize Cavity Treatment: Cavities should be treated before beginning treatment to prevent possible issues.
Consult with a Dentist to assess if the cavities need to be treated immediately or can be delayed, along with the treatment options.
Make a plan: Your dentist and orthodontist should work together to map out exactly when to handle your cavities and start your braces.
FAQs
Q: Can I still get braces if I have cavities?
A: Yes, but most orthodontists will want you to get those cavities filled first before they put your braces on.
Q: Do I have to fix my cavities first?
A: Almost always, yes. It’s much harder to fill cavities properly once brackets and wires are in the way.
Q: What happens if they find cavities after I get braces?
A: Your dentist can usually work around smaller cavities, but bigger ones might require temporarily removing some brackets to fix them properly.
Now let’s discuss in a bit more detail, the types of braces and cavities:
What are dental braces?
Dental braces straighten and align teeth. They are commonly used to treat problems such as gaps between teeth, underbites, overbites, and overcrowding. Braces gradually shift teeth into the ideal positions by applying minimal force over time.
Types of Braces
Traditional Metal Braces are the most common type, with metal brackets attached to each tooth and wires passing through them.
Ceramic braces have tooth-colored brackets that give a more discreet look.
Lingual braces: These braces are attached to the back of the teeth, making them almost unnoticeable.
Self-ligating braces use a clip system rather than rubber bands, which frequently require fewer adjustments because they hold the wire in place.
How do braces work?
During treatment, metal or ceramic brackets bonded to your teeth hold a wire that applies gentle pressure. Your orthodontist regularly tightens this wire to keep your teeth moving toward their final positions.
After the braces are removed, retainers are used to maintain the positions of newly aligned teeth.
What are dental cavities?
Cavities happen when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and produce acid that eats away at your teeth.
Causes of Cavities:
- Sugary diet: The more sugary foods and drinks you consume, the more fuel you’re giving these harmful bacteria.
- Poor oral hygiene: Skipping brushing and flossing regularly allows plaque to build up and causes cavities.
- Dry mouth: Reduced saliva flow can make it more challenging to remove bacteria.
- Medications: Some medicines can cause dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities.
Prevention is key to avoiding cavities through regular dental care and good oral hygiene.
So what are your options if you already have cavities?
Alternative orthodontic treatments for individuals with cavities
While traditional braces remain an effective option, people with cavities could benefit from these alternatives:
Clear Aligners: Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign and other clear aligner systems are a viable alternative for mild to moderate cases of misalignment and are easier to keep clean.
Lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth, and they are less noticeable.
It’s important to remember that the best treatment plan depends on the complexity of your orthodontic needs and the severity of your cavities.
Consultation with an orthodontist for personalized advice
Detailed Assessment: Consult an orthodontist to discuss your orthodontic needs in detail and examine your oral health.
Treatment Recommendations: The orthodontist can offer tailored advice depending on your unique circumstances.
Coordination with Dentist: The orthodontist can collaborate closely with your dentist to arrange treatment plans.
Working with your dental team helps you handle existing cavities while planning the best orthodontic approach for your situation.
Tips for Managing Cavities and Braces
Oral hygiene practices for individuals with braces and cavities
Keeping your teeth clean becomes even more crucial when you have braces, especially if you also have cavities. Here’s how to take good care of your teeth while preventing further dental issues:
- Consistent Brushing: Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day, after meals and before bed. Pay close attention to the area surrounding the wires and brackets.
- Floss every day to remove plaque and food particles from difficult-to-reach tight spaces between your braces and teeth.
- Interdental brushes are useful for cleaning in and around brackets and wires.
- Mouthwash helps reduce bacterial load and improve your breath.
- Regular Dental Exams: Make sure you see your orthodontist and dentist regularly to monitor your oral health.
Dietary considerations for maintaining oral health with braces and cavities
Avoid Sticky Foods, as they can damage your braces and increase the risk of cavities.
Choose Healthy Snacks: Opt for fruits, vegetables, and dairy products as healthier alternatives.
Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Sugar contributes to cavity formation and can stick to braces. Drinking lots of water rinses away food particles and keeps your mouth hydrated.
Regular dental checkups and maintenance during orthodontic treatment
- Regular Checkups: Schedule routine appointments with your dentist and orthodontist to keep an eye on your dental health.
- Professional Cleanings: Expert cleanings may help with getting rid of tartar and plaque accumulation around braces.
- Fluoride treatments can help prevent cavities and strengthen tooth enamel.
- Early Detection: Dental issues such as cavities and gum issues can be found early because of regular checkups.
Conclusion
Getting braces with cavities isn’t impossible, but treating those cavities first sets you up for a smoother, more successful treatment.
While it might mean waiting a few extra weeks, you’ll likely finish faster and with fewer complications.
