Everything about tooth decay in orthodontics

Last update: 08-03-1404

Confirming doctor: Dr. Saeed Qureshi

Author: Yasman Farjami

Orthodontics Teeth is one of the effective methods to correct abnormalities and improve the appearance of a smile, but the most important and frequent question is whether orthodontics causes tooth decay? The answer to this question directly affects the decision to start treatment. In this article, we will examine the causes and factors related to tooth decay in orthodontics and introduce effective solutions to maintain the health of teeth. If you want to know how to prevent tooth decay during orthodontic treatment and continue this process more confidently, stay with us until the end of the article.

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Does orthodontics cause tooth decay? Orthodontics alone does not cause tooth decay, but it creates conditions that if oral hygiene is not followed, the probability of tooth decay in orthodontics increases. Wires and brackets make tooth cleaning more difficult, plaque builds up, and tooth enamel is vulnerable to damage. The problem is not orthodontics itself; The problem is negligence in day care. For example, if special dental floss is not used or antibacterial mouthwash is not placed next to the toothbrush, tooth decay starts behind the brackets. You may not notice it until the end of the treatment. In such a situation, the cause of bad breath is also known: food residue, bacterial growth and not cleaning properly around the brackets. Some think that a monthly check-up by a dentist is enough and there is no need for continuous care. This is a common mistake. Continuous use of sugary substances or acidic drinks, especially during fixed orthodontics, accelerates tooth decay. Because the surface under the bracket cannot be seen, but the acidic environment reaches it. Reasons that cause tooth decay in orthodontics In the course of orthodontics, although the goal is to correct the position of the teeth, failure to comply with some points can cause serious damage, including tooth decay in orthodontics and gum recession. The three main factors that play the most important role in tooth decay in orthodontics are: 1. Lack of access to all parts of the mouth to maintain orthodontic hygiene 2. Non-observance of proper orthodontic diet 3. Not paying attention to the orthodontist's orders ### Lack of access to all parts of the mouth to maintain hygiene Brackets and wires prevent thorough brushing. Food residue gets stuck around these tools and over time causes plaque accumulation and orthodontic tooth decay. Many patients ignore the areas behind the wire or between the teeth, when exactly these places are the most affected. If you have this question that does orthodontics cause tooth decay? It should be said: not directly, but it provides the conditions. ### Non-observance of proper orthodontic diet Sticky, sweet or hard foods not only damage the brackets, but also threaten the tooth enamel. Continuous consumption of soft drinks, sweets or even nuts can destroy the outer layer of the tooth during the treatment. This type of nutrition is one of the most important causes of tooth decay in orthodontics and even the cause of bad breath in orthodontic patients. ### Not paying attention to the orthodontist's orders Guidelines such as flossing, mouthwash, or regular visits are an important part of successful orthodontic treatment. Ignoring these recommendations greatly increases the risk of orthodontic tooth decay. Many patients only realize the problem when the decay is advanced and part of the tooth enamel is lost. In such a situation, there is no longer any question that does orthodontics cause tooth decay, the answer is clear in the final result. Are braces removed in case of tooth decay in orthodontics? If tooth decay occurs in orthodontics, it is usually not necessary to completely remove the brace, unless the severity of the damage is very high or the decayed area is under the bracket and access for treatment is not possible. In most cases, the orthodontist temporarily removes one or more brackets to repair the decay, then the brackets are reinstalled. In the following video, Dr. Saeed Qureshi, an orthodontic specialist in Tehran, explains how caries are repaired during orthodontics: The final decision depends on the location of the caries, its progress and the type of orthodontic system. If caries is detected in the early stages, its treatment is done without stopping the dental orthodontic process. For this reason, strict adherence to oral hygiene and prevention of tooth decay in orthodontics through the use of dental floss, interdental toothbrush, and mouthwash are vitally important so that the treatment process continues without disruption. Symptoms of tooth decay in orthodontics During orthodontic treatment, changes occur in the mouth that, if not carefully controlled, can lead to tooth decay. Early detection of symptoms plays an important role in preventing the progression of injuries. Some symptoms directly refer to orthodontic tooth decay or enamel loss and should not be ignored. The following are the most important symptoms of tooth decay in orthodontics: - Toothache: Continuous or throbbing pain, especially when chewing or at night - Sensitivity of teeth to heat and cold: Feeling of shooting even by drinking plain water - Change the color of the teeth: White chalky or brown spots on the teeth, which are signs of the beginning of tooth decay in orthodontics - Bad breath: One of the early warnings that can be a sign of plaque accumulation and decay - Tooth fracture: Crack or chipping caused by the weakening of the tooth structure due to decay or incorrect pressure of brackets Does tooth decay occur in many clients after orthodontics? Tooth decay after dental orthodontics is seen in some clients, but it cannot be considered a certain or widespread event. The fact is that many of these cases occur due to poor oral hygiene during treatment, not the orthodontics itself. This question, does orthodontics cause tooth damage? There is a clear answer: No, but if hygiene is not followed properly, there is a possibility of injury. In fact, tooth decay in orthodontics is more common in people who ignore care recommendations. Brackets and wires make it harder to access tooth surfaces and if not cleaned properly, the conditions are ripe for decay. Therefore, prevention depends on proper education and continuous care, not stopping treatment. The best way to prevent tooth decay in orthodontics The best ways to prevent tooth decay after orthodontics are: - regular and accurate brushing after every meal according to how to use an orthodontic toothbrush - Using interdental toothbrush for thorough cleaning around brackets and wires - Daily use of dental floss for orthodontics - Using antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque and bacteria - Avoid consuming sweet, sticky and acidic foods and drinks - Regular visits to the orthodontist to check and adjust braces - Professional teeth cleaning by a dentist at regular intervals - Strict compliance with the orders and recommendations of the orthodontist in health care Careful oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is the main key to prevent tooth decay in orthodontics. Regular and basic care of the teeth and visiting an orthodontist on time will prevent serious problems. In order to experience a successful treatment and maintain the health of the teeth, choosing professional orthodontic services is especially important.

**Dr. Saeed Qureshi** Dr. Saeed Qureshi, an orthodontic specialist with more than 20 years of experience in the treatment of jaw and teeth abnormalities, is the first member of the specialized board of the country, has the specialized board of orthodontics from Canada and is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO). To book an appointment and receive advice, you can visit any of the three specialized orthodontic centers in Tehran (located in Saadat Abad, Tehran Pars and Nawab areas) or the Qom orthodontic office under their management.

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