When you have braces and a cavity, the wire from the affected tooth is usually removed and replaced when the filling is complete. Treating cavities can be more challenging when you have braces, but it's not impossible. Cavities often form in the cracks between teeth and around brackets and wires. If the cavity is in a difficult spot, we can take out the wire so that a dentist can provide the right treatment for the decay. It's important to schedule your appointments close together (dentist and orthodontist) so that your cavity can be filled and the wire replaced.
This problem is more likely to occur with fixed orthodontic appliances made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. Removable orthodontic appliances can also cause tooth decay. If left untreated, cavities can infect the pulp of the teeth. Tooth decay can quickly turn into a painful abscess, infection, or jaw issue. That's why it's so important to work hard to keep your orthodontic appliances clean to prevent tooth decay.
Yes, as long as the teeth have been properly treated with fillings. It's best to fill cavities before beginning orthodontic treatment, so orthodontists recommend seeking dental treatment before starting orthodontic treatment. However, your orthodontist may suggest alternative treatments if your teeth have had multiple cavities in the past. Children are particularly prone to tooth decay and discoloration because they don't brush or floss properly during orthodontic treatment. Cavities develop quickly and can occur when braces are placed between teeth because flossing becomes much more difficult.
Basically, cavities are areas of the teeth where bacteria have eaten away at the enamel (the protective superhard layer of calcium and other minerals that protect the dentine of the teeth) and have started to multiply. It's never a good idea to use braces if you currently have cavities (unless your dentist only plans to place braces on unaffected teeth; for example, if you have cavities in some lower teeth but only need them on your upper teeth, you can continue with the orthodontic procedure). Tooth decay and decay are real problems when a patient has their teeth corrected with braces. Your dentist will be able to treat any cavities, even if you have braces, and return to your orthodontic treatment as soon as possible. Instead, it's much better for your dentist to take care of any cavities you currently have and fill in any gaps before placing your orthodontic appliances. Everyone gets cavities from time to time, and the chances of tooth decay are much higher if you wear braces since it's harder to fully floss between your teeth.
In addition, you won't have to endure additional discomfort or risk cavities spreading to other teeth during treatment with orthodontic appliances. By doing this, you'll strengthen individual teeth that may have been weakened by cavities and make your orthodontic appliances much more successful and comfortable. In short, it's always best to fill in cavities and complete any other major dental treatment before getting braces.
