Tooth decay is a disease known as caries or cavities. Tooth decay is caused by certain bacteria in the mouth that thrive on sugars and refined carbohydrates and make acids as a side effect. The acids attach to the hard outer layer of your tooth (enamel) first. The acids eventually penetrate the tooth to the softer mineral within the tooth (dentin). If not treated, tooth decay can destroy large portions of the tooth and infect the nerve (pulp) and blood vessels at the center of the tooth. In older adults, exposed root surfaces are also at risk for decay. Tooth decay is a highly preventable disease with many contributing factors.
When cavities or tooth decay forms on your teeth, it is important to treat it with fillings as soon as possible. Untreated cavities compromise the strength of your teeth, making chips and severe breaks much more likely. Additionally, once the decay penetrates the surface of the tooth, cavities can lead to severe infections in the interior of your tooth, which eventually may lead to a root canal. To avoid this, there are several options available for treating cavities.
Who is at Risk for Tooth Decay?
Everyone who has teeth is at risk for tooth decay. Bacteria naturally live in our mouths, and when these bacteria combine with sugars and starches from our food, they produce acids that can erode tooth enamel.
However, certain factors can increase your risk of developing cavities:
Dietary Factors
- High sugar intake: Sugary foods and drinks provide a feast for cavity-causing bacteria.
- Frequent snacking: Between-meal snacks can keep bacteria constantly producing acid.
- Refined carbohydrates: These are quickly broken down into sugars, feeding the bacteria.
Oral Hygiene Factors
- Poor brushing and flossing: Regular, thorough cleaning removes plaque and food debris that can lead to cavities.
- Hard bristles: Using a toothbrush with hard bristles can damage your gums and enamel.
- Not replacing your toothbrush regularly: A worn-out toothbrush is less effective at cleaning teeth.
Other Factors
- Dry mouth: Saliva helps neutralize acids and protect teeth. Conditions that cause dry mouth, such as medications, dehydration, or certain medical conditions, can increase the risk of cavities.
- Fluoride deficiency: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to decay. Living in an area with limited or no fluoridated water can increase your risk.
- Certain medical conditions: Some health conditions, such as diabetes and eating disorders, can weaken the immune system and make you more susceptible to cavities.
- Age: Both children and older adults are at increased risk for tooth decay. Children’s teeth are still developing and may be more susceptible, while older adults may have difficulty with oral hygiene or experience dry mouth.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to increased gum sensitivity and susceptibility to cavities.
- Acid reflux: Acid reflux can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities and sensitivity.
If you’re concerned about your risk for tooth decay, talk to an orthodontist. They can assess your risk factors and provide personalized recommendations for preventing cavities.
Importance of Oral Hygiene in Cavity Prevention
Alongside visiting your orthodontist to prevent cavities from hurting teeth, you can focus on improving dental hygiene. This includes strengthening tooth enamel with fluoride treatment or using a toothpaste containing fluoride for brushing.
Toothbrushes can’t reach certain areas within your mouth. This is why visiting an orthodontist means having your teeth with braces thoroughly checked for signs of cavities. They introduce many treatments that target the areas infiltrated by dental caries, restoring oral health.
Some patients consume a variety of beverages, which can develop decay-causing bacteria around teeth and within the mouth. By reducing the intake, they can witness a significant reduction in cavities and improvement in oral well-being.
How Orthodontics Help Prevent Cavities?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of dental and facial irregularities. It is often used to improve the appearance of teeth and jaws, but it can also have a significant impact on oral health.
One of the benefits of orthodontics is that it can help to prevent cavities. This is because orthodontics can help to improve the alignment of teeth, which can make it easier to clean them properly. When teeth are crooked or misaligned, it can be difficult to reach all of the surfaces with a toothbrush and floss. This can lead to plaque buildup, which can increase the risk of cavities.
How Do Orthodontists Combat Cavities?
Your orthodontist can recommend several ways to eliminate cavity-causing factors and ensure positive outcomes with braces. They utilize special equipment to remove orthodontic appliances temporarily and treat the site with fillings or other restorative treatments.
Some practitioners also offer fluoride treatments to shield patients’ teeth against further complications. If there are debris or food particles in the gaps between orthodontic appliances, orthodontists use special cleaning equipment to eliminate them.
There are several ways in which orthodontics can help to prevent cavities.
- Improved tooth alignment: When teeth are crooked or misaligned, it can be difficult to clean them properly. This can lead to plaque buildup, which can increase the risk of cavities. Orthodontics can help to improve the alignment of teeth, which can make it easier to clean them properly.
- Reduced plaque buildup: Plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth. It is made up of bacteria and other microorganisms. When plaque is not removed regularly, it can harden into tartar. Tartar can irritate the gums and lead to gum disease. Orthodontics can help to reduce plaque buildup by making it easier to clean teeth.
- Improved oral hygiene: Orthodontics can help to improve oral hygiene by making it easier to clean teeth and floss. This can help to reduce the risk of cavities and other oral health problems.
Types of Orthodontic Treatment
There are several different types of orthodontic treatment. The type of treatment that is right for you will depend on your individual needs.
Braces
Braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. They are made of metal brackets that are bonded to the teeth. Wires are then threaded through the brackets to move the teeth into alignment. Braces can be made of metal, ceramic, or clear plastic.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a clear aligner system that is used to straighten teeth. Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic and are custom-made to fit your teeth. They are changed every two weeks to gradually move the teeth into alignment.
Retainers
Retainers are used to hold teeth in place after orthodontic treatment has been completed. Retainers can be fixed or removable.
Tips for Preventing Cavities with Orthodontics
If you have braces or another type of orthodontic treatment, there are a few things you can do to help prevent cavities.
- Brush your teeth twice a day: Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss your teeth once a day: Flossing is important for removing plaque from between teeth.
- Use a mouthwash: A mouthwash can help to kill bacteria that can cause cavities.
- See your dentist for regular checkups: It is important to see your dentist for regular checkups to monitor your oral health.
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks: Sugary foods and drinks can contribute to plaque buildup.
- Wear your retainer as directed: If you are wearing a retainer, be sure to wear it as directed by your orthodontist.
Orthodontics can be a great way to improve your oral health. In addition to improving the appearance of your teeth, orthodontics can also help to prevent cavities. Following the tips in this blog and consulting with an orthodontist can help to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
It is important to choose an experienced orthodontist who is qualified to provide the type of treatment you need. Dr. Yubin Lee at Smile Studio Orthodontics is a highly qualified orthodontist who can help you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.
FAQs
Will orthodontics make my teeth more sensitive?
Yes, orthodontics can temporarily make your teeth more sensitive. This is because the brackets and wires can irritate the gums and teeth. However, this sensitivity usually subsides over time.
Can I still get cavities after orthodontic treatment?
Yes, even after orthodontic treatment, you can still get cavities. It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, to prevent cavities.
Can I get braces if I have cavities?
If you have cavities, your dentist may recommend treating them before starting orthodontic treatment. However, in some cases, it may be possible to start orthodontic treatment while addressing the cavities.
Is it possible to get cavities between teeth that are already straightened?
Yes, it’s possible to get cavities between teeth that are already straightened. This is why it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene even after orthodontic treatment is complete.
Can orthodontics help fix a bite that’s causing cavities?
Yes, orthodontic treatment can help correct a bite that’s contributing to cavities. A misaligned bite can make it difficult to chew and clean teeth properly, increasing the risk of cavities.
