Braces can help straighten your teeth and give you a beautiful smile, but they can also make it more challenging to maintain good oral hygiene. When you have braces, it’s essential to take extra care to brush and floss regularly to prevent tooth decay. In this blog post, we’ll explore the signs of tooth decay with braces and what you can do to prevent it.
How to Tell if You Have a Cavity with Braces
Tooth decay can occur when plaque and bacteria build up on your teeth and create acid that erodes your tooth enamel. When you have braces, it can be more challenging to clean your teeth thoroughly, which can increase your risk of developing cavities. Here are some signs that you may have a cavity with braces:
- Tooth sensitivity or pain when you bite or chew
- A visible hole or pit in your tooth
- A sticky or soft feeling on the surface of your tooth
- A dark spot or stain on your tooth
- A broken or chipped tooth
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to schedule a visit with your orthodontist or dentist as soon as possible.
What Happens if You Get a Cavity with Braces?
If you get a cavity with braces, it’s important to address it promptly to prevent further damage to your teeth. Your orthodontist may need to remove your braces temporarily to allow your dentist to fill the cavity properly. If the cavity is severe, you may need to have a root canal or tooth extraction.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay with Braces
Preventing tooth decay with braces requires extra effort and attention to your oral hygiene habits. Here are some tips to help you maintain good oral health while wearing braces:
- Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily using a floss threader or water flosser
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Visit your orthodontist and dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
- Use a mouthguard if you play sports to protect your teeth and braces
Can an Orthodontist Tell if You Have a Cavity?
While an orthodontist is not a dentist, they are trained to identify signs of tooth decay and other oral health problems. During your regular check-ups with your orthodontist, they will examine your teeth and look for signs of decay or damage. If they suspect you may have a cavity, they will refer you to a dentist for further evaluation and treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tooth decay with braces is a common problem that can lead to serious oral health issues if left untreated. If you notice any signs of tooth decay, it’s essential to schedule a visit with your orthodontist or dentist as soon as possible. At Elara Orthodontics in Richmond, Texas, our team of experienced orthodontic professionals is dedicated to providing the best possible care for our patients’ teeth and gums. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about why we’re the best orthodontic practice in Richmond, Texas.
10 Signs of Tooth Decay with Braces
Wearing braces can help straighten your teeth and improve your oral health, but it also comes with some challenges. With braces, it can be harder to maintain good oral hygiene, making you more susceptible to tooth decay. It’s essential to keep an eye out for any signs of tooth decay while wearing braces to ensure your teeth stay healthy. In this blog post, we’ll discuss 10 signs of tooth decay with braces that you should be aware of.
Tooth sensitivity
One of the first signs of tooth decay with braces is tooth sensitivity. If you experience pain or sensitivity when you eat or drink hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages, it may indicate that you have a cavity.
Discoloration
Tooth decay can cause discoloration or dark spots on your teeth. If you notice any changes in the color of your teeth, it’s important to get it checked out by your orthodontist or dentist.
Bad breath
Tooth decay can cause bad breath, which can be embarrassing and unpleasant. If you have persistent bad breath, it may indicate that you have a cavity.
Pain or discomfort when biting or chewing
If you experience pain or discomfort when biting or chewing, it may indicate that you have a cavity or other dental issue.
A rough or uneven feeling on the surface of your teeth
Tooth decay can cause rough or uneven surfaces on your teeth, which can be felt when running your tongue over them.
Visible holes or pits in your teeth
As tooth decay progresses, it can cause visible holes or pits in your teeth. These can be seen in the mirror or felt with your tongue.
Swollen or bleeding gums
Tooth decay can also cause gum disease, which can lead to swollen, bleeding, or tender gums.
Cracks or chips in your teeth
Tooth decay can weaken your teeth, causing them to crack or chip more easily. If you notice any cracks or chips in your teeth, it’s important to get it checked out by your orthodontist or dentist.
White spots on your teeth
White spots on your teeth can be a sign of early tooth decay. If you notice any white spots, it’s important to get it checked out by your orthodontist or dentist.
Rotten smell coming from your mouth
Tooth decay can cause a rotten smell coming from your mouth. If you experience this, it’s important to get it checked out by your orthodontist or dentist.
Conclusion
Tooth decay with braces can lead to serious oral health issues if left untreated. By keeping an eye out for these 10 signs of tooth decay with braces, you can ensure your teeth stay healthy and strong. If you notice any signs of tooth decay, it’s important to schedule a visit with your orthodontist or dentist as soon as possible. At Elara Orthodontics in Richmond, Texas, our team of experienced orthodontic professionals is dedicated to providing the best possible care for our patients’ teeth and gums. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help you maintain optimal oral health.