Dental braces are common orthodontic devices designed to gradually shift teeth into straighter, more aligned positions. While widely recognized as safe and effective, some individuals wonder if they could potentially harm their teeth. Braces themselves do not inherently ruin teeth, but certain dental changes can occur if appropriate care is not diligently followed.
How Braces Can Affect Your Teeth
Enamel demineralization, appearing as white spots, is a potential concern during orthodontic treatment. These spots result from mineral loss due to plaque accumulation around brackets, where brushing can be challenging. Lingering plaque acids erode enamel, leaving lighter areas once braces are removed.
Root resorption, the shortening of tooth roots, can also occur. While some minor root resorption is common and often clinically insignificant, it can be more pronounced in certain individuals. Causes are not fully understood, but individual susceptibility and forces applied during tooth movement may play a role. Orthodontists monitor this condition using X-rays during treatment.
Braces can contribute to gum issues, making proper oral hygiene more difficult. Brackets and wires create surfaces where food and plaque can become trapped, leading to gum inflammation, known as gingivitis. If unaddressed, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe gum disease that can affect the bone supporting the teeth.
Difficulty cleaning around braces raises the risk of tooth decay, or cavities. When food and plaque remain on tooth surfaces, bacteria produce acids that erode enamel and create holes. This risk is higher for those who consume sugary foods and drinks without proper cleaning.
Mitigating Potential Damage
Proper oral hygiene is important when wearing braces to prevent damage. Brushing after every meal, or at least twice daily, removes food and plaque that can accumulate around brackets and wires. Using a fluoride toothpaste helps strengthen enamel and protect against acid attacks.
Daily flossing is necessary, requiring specialized tools like floss threaders or water flossers to navigate wires. These tools clean between teeth and under the archwire. Regular use of an antimicrobial mouthwash can also reduce bacteria and inflammation.
Dietary adjustments are important for protecting teeth and braces. Avoid hard, crunchy foods like nuts and hard candies, which can break brackets or bend wires. Sticky foods such as caramels and chewing gum also damage appliances, are difficult to remove, and promote plaque buildup. Limit sugary drinks and snacks, as they fuel acid-producing bacteria.
Regular attendance at both orthodontic and general dental appointments is important for monitoring oral health. Orthodontists adjust braces, check tooth movement, and look for signs of issues like root resorption or demineralization through clinical examination and X-rays. Regular check-ups with a general dentist for professional cleanings and cavity detection are also important.
Long-Term Dental Health After Braces
After braces are removed, maintaining alignment is important, and retainers play a key role. Retainers, either removable or fixed, prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions, a phenomenon known as relapse. Consistent retainer wear, as prescribed by the orthodontist, ensures the long-term stability of the straightened smile.
Minor issues like white spots or mild gum inflammation can often be managed after braces are removed. White spots from demineralization can sometimes be treated with professional fluoride applications or other remineralization therapies. Improved oral hygiene practices after braces are off typically lead to a reduction in gum inflammation.
With proper care and consistent adherence to orthodontic and dental recommendations throughout treatment, most individuals achieve excellent long-term dental health. The benefits of a stable, healthy bite and improved aesthetics generally outweigh the potential and manageable risks.