People who are thinking about braces are often worried that they will not be able to get them if they have started developing cavities. In the case of active cavities, they should generally be treated before placing brackets, wires, or other orthodontic appliances.
This is done to ensure a safe and successful orthodontic treatment. At Dr. Sachin’s Dental, we treat the cavities and create a customized braces plan according to your dental health and treatment needs.
The Short Answer: Cavities Usually Come First
If you have an active cavity in your tooth before starting your dental braces treatment, your dentist will likely recommend filling the cavity before you begin with your braces treatment. The delay is usually a few appointments (1-2 appointments) rather than months of waiting to begin your treatment.
Early enamel damage can be monitored and treated with preventative dental care but more established cavities will require filling. Your dentist will be able to advise on the most suitable course of treatment after examining your teeth.
Why Untreated Cavities and Braces Don’t Mix?
While having braces on can make it more difficult to clean around the brackets and wire, food getting stuck in teeth with cavities creates and feeds decay.
There are several reasons that a general dentist would want to address any active decay prior to commencing any orthodontic treatment.
- Plaque buildup: Braces can trap plaque, making brushing harder and increasing the risk of further decay.
- Weakened teeth: Severely decayed teeth may need extra care during orthodontic treatment.
- Hidden infections: Untreated cavities can reach the tooth pulp, causing pain and requiring treatment before braces.
- Treatment delays: Cavities around brackets may require partial brace removal for dental treatment.
- White spots and enamel damage: Poor oral hygiene can cause white patches around brackets due to enamel demineralization.
Nonetheless, a healthier start in braces treatment will most likely come from healthy teeth. If you have cavities treated before installing the braces, it will help you avoid further problems and make your braces experience smoother.
What Gets Treated Before Braces?
The process of getting dental braces started in Patna involves some steps that your dentist/orthodontist will walk you through first.
After the thorough examination, the dentist may also recommend X-rays such as a panoramic or a small bitewing series if there is something to be identified that is not obvious by the regular examination.
If dental problems are found, treatment may include:
- Fillings: Most cavities can be treated with tooth filling in Patna to restore the affected teeth.
- Root Canal Treatment: Decay affecting the tooth’s pulp or nerve may require root canal treatment.
- Crowns: Severely damaged teeth may need crowns after the necessary treatment.
- Tooth Extraction: In some cases, removing a tooth may be the best option for oral health.
- Professional Dental Cleaning: Scaling and polishing remove plaque and tartar before braces treatment.
- Fluoride Treatment: Your dentist may recommend fluoride care based on your risk of tooth decay.
The dental treatments you need before having braces will be determined by how bad your dental problems are. Also, it determines what will be included in your orthodontic treatment plan altogether.
Can Dental Treatment and Braces Planning Happen at the Same Time?
Yes. Many times, the treatment planning for all dental work can be done at the same time even if some of that work is major. However, we typically try to do restorative work on areas with active decay before we put the braces on for full use.
Minor dental issues can be treated at the same time as the initial phase of the orthodontic treatment planning. This requires coordination between the dentist’s office and the orthodontist’s office.
Assessing dental problems early on helps dentists determine which treatments need to be completed first and when it is best to start with the orthodontic treatment.
How to Prevent Cavities During Braces?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is a key factor to successful treatment. The following habits should be adopted by everyone with braces:
- Brush carefully after meals whenever possible.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth using interdental brushes or as recommended by your dentist.
- Consider using a fluoride mouthwash as recommended by your dentist.
- Limit sugary and sticky foods.
- Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings.
- Follow your orthodontist’s instructions regarding braces care.
Removable clear aligners can make cleaning easier for some patients, however they are not suitable for all orthodontic cases.
How Dr. Sachin’s Dental Can Help?
At Dr. Sachin’s Dental, we examine your teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy and ready for orthodontic treatment. Our team will find cavity areas as well as other dental concerns which might require treatment prior to braces. Depending on your dental condition, our dentists will recommend treatments suitable for restoring a healthy dental condition.
We will prepare a plan of braces for each patient’s unique situation considering the state of the oral health and teeth alignment objectives. If you come for an appointment with us, we’ll be able to tell you if your teeth are going to be ready for a set of fixed appliances.
If any dental problems are found it’s better to deal with them earlier to minimize any possible issues. However, during dental braces treatment in Patna, it might help you enjoy a much more comfortable orthodontic experience overall.
Conclusion
Having cavities doesn’t mean you cannot get braces. Most cavities can be treated before orthodontic treatment begins. Addressing dental problems early helps protect your teeth and reduce the risk of complications during treatment.
Before starting braces, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to identify any issues requiring attention. Depending on your dental health, you may need fillings, root canal treatment, or other procedures.
At Dr. Sachin’s Dental, we help you understand your treatment needs and determine when your teeth are ready for braces. With proper care and a personalized plan, you can work towards a healthier, straighter smile.