Got a cavity during your braces treatment? In this video, Diamond Braces orthodontist Dr. Jason Berk informs you about how fillings work during orthodontic care.
Can you Get a Filling with Braces?
Yes, you can! Seeing a dentist regularly during your orthodontic treatment is extremely important to keep your teeth clean and healthy during the length of your braces treatment.
Before you get your braces, you should see your dentist for a cleaning and check for any cavities. It’s easier to get cavities filled before braces treatment, so orthodontists recommend you seek dental treatment before beginning orthodontic care.
However, cavities do come up, even during braces treatment. It’s important to treat them quickly so they don’t get worse, so braces treatment developments make it easy to get fillings from your general dentist at the same time as your braces treatment.
To do this, your orthodontist will consult with your dentist to find out the best way to do the filling around the braces. Your orthodontist may need to remove the bracket from the tooth that is receiving the filling, to make it easier for the general dentist to treat it. Then, when the filling is complete, your orthodontist will put the bracket back on your tooth.
You will not experience delays in your treatment, and quick treatment of the cavity will prevent further decay, which could have larger consequences for your orthodontic care and the future of your smile.
Will a Cavity Affect My Braces?
A quickly-treated cavity will not have a big impact on your braces, but over time, tooth decay can cause harm to your orthodontic care as well as your lifelong, healthy smile!
Proper oral health care is critically important to the longevity of your smile and the effectiveness of your braces treatment, and to keep your teeth white, fresh, and clean for a lifetime.
During the length of your braces treatment, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and floss every night with a floss threader. You can also use a Waterpik for optimal cleaning, and a fluoride, non-alcoholic mouthwash. Curious? Get more braces care tips.
Avoid hard or sticky foods, and keep your sugar intake low, especially sugar-loaded beverages like soda. Read up on all braces food tips.
Be sure to visit your general dentist regularly for cleanings, and to check on any potential problem spots with your teeth.
With proper oral healthcare and prompt attention to any issues, you’ll be smiling for a lifetime!
