Braces can correct a wide range of misalignments including crooked, gapped, crowded teeth. While they are helping to align your teeth, they also make it difficult to keep your mouth clean. People with braces often struggle with maintaining oral hygiene.

With all those wires, brackets, and bands, food can easily get trapped. When cleaning becomes harder, plaque and bacteria can build up, leading to tooth decay.

Studies show that people wearing braces for 18 months and longer shows evidence of demineralization of the tooth surface after treatment.

So, how exactly does tooth decay happen? And why is it more of a concern with braces?

How Tooth Decay Happens and Why It Matters

Bacteria that feed on the food particles left behind in your mouth cause tooth decay. When this bacteria breaks down food, it creates acids that attack the enamel. Over time, this can cause cavities and other oral issues. But why should you be worried?

The plaque that causes decay can build up around your braces, making it harder to keep your teeth clean. If you are not careful, it can lead to more serious problems, such as cavities or gum disease.

Can Braces Lead to Tooth Decay?

Braces have brackets and wires that trap food particles and plaque, which can lead to tooth decay if left uncleaned.

You might also find it harder to brush and floss properly with braces. Brackets and wires can block your toothbrush or floss from reaching every surface of your teeth. Bacteria can stay trapped, increasing the risk of cavities and gum problems.

How To Spot Tooth Decay with Braces

You might be asking yourself, “How do I know if I have decay while wearing braces?” Here are some signs that you should not ignore:

1. White spots around the brackets

These can be an early warning sign of enamel damage. The white spots indicate that your enamel is being demineralized, which could eventually lead to cavities.

2. Sensitivity

If you start feeling pain or discomfort when eating something hot or cold, it might be a sign of decay.

3. Gum problems

If your gums are bleeding, tender, or swollen, this could mean that plaque is building up and causing gum disease, which could lead to tooth decay.

To spot these signs, take a closer look at your teeth in the mirror. You can also try using an interdental brush or floss threader to clean around the braces and check for any changes in the surface of your teeth.

If you find any of these issues on your teeth, consult with your Phoenix orthodontist. They will thoroughly check the health of your teeth and may refer you to a general dentist for treatment.

How To Prevent Tooth Decay While Using Braces

While braces make it difficult to clean your teeth, you can follow some steps to keep your teeth healthy while wearing braces:

1. Brush thoroughly

Make sure you are brushing all surfaces of your teeth, especially around the brackets and wires. An orthodontic toothbrush can make this easier as they are designed to clean around braces.

2. Floss carefully

Flossing is a must with braces. Use a floss threader to get the floss under the wire and between your teeth. This will help remove food particles and plaque that can lead to decay.

3. Watch what you eat

Foods that are sticky or sugary can stick to your braces and feed the bacteria in your mouth. Try to avoid foods like candy, gum, and soda. Instead, choose tooth-friendly snacks like fruits, vegetables, and cheese.

4. Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash

Fluoride helps strengthen your enamel and protect against cavities. Consider using fluoride mouthwash, especially if you’re having trouble brushing thoroughly.

5. Regular dental cleanings

Visit your dentist regularly, even while you have braces. Professional cleanings will help remove any plaque buildup that might be tough to get rid of on your own.

How Orthodontists Can Help Prevent Decay While Using Braces

Orthodontists play a big part in keeping your teeth healthy during your braces treatment. They will check for any early signs of decay at each of your visits and can recommend products or techniques to help you maintain good oral hygiene.

At Woolaver Orthodontics, our orthodontist Dr. Woolaver will support you at every step. During your check-ups, we will check for any early sign of decay and help ensure your oral hygiene routine is on track.

If you have any questions or need help with your routine checkup, reach out to us at (928) 593-4033 today.

Tooth Decay and Braces : How To Spot it and Prevent Decay