Do You Need to Get Rid of Cavities Before Getting Orthodontic Care?

If you are planning to get orthodontic treatment and have cavities, it is always recommended to treat cavities first. Cavities are tooth decay, and if they are not treated promptly they can grow and weaken the tooth structure. Taking care of your oral health always comes first. Once your cavities are treated you can move on to orthodontic treatment.

You can still get braces or aligners if you have cavities, but they should be filled first. Starting with healthy teeth helps treatment go smoothly and keeps decay from spreading under brackets or aligners.

Can You Get Braces if you Have Cavities?

Braces for example use wires and brackets, and they put pressure on your teeth in order to move them into the correct position. Cavities weaken your teeth if they are not treated properly. Taking care of any decay before orthodontic treatment is required, and will help to prevent further damage.

Teeth need to be strong for orthodontic treatment. If the tooth is decayed it may not be able to withstand the pressure of biting or chewing, and this can lead to cracks or fractures. Tooth loss is another concern for candidates that have tooth decay and need orthodontic care.

Cavity Treatment With Braces

Cavity treatment with braces is possible but tends to be more difficult. Keeping your teeth healthy with braces is extremely important. This includes brushing and flossing each day to keep that sticky plaque from building up between brackets and wires. If needed, cavities can be filled carefully, but may require your wire to be removed. Our team will work closely with your dentist to coordinate this process.

What Are My Next Steps?

If you suspect you have cavities we encourage you to make an appointment with our office. Our team can treat your cavities, and ensure your teeth are strong and ready for orthodontic treatment. Depending on the severity of the cavities will determine what treatment is needed.

Once your cavities are treated you are ready to schedule your orthodontic consultation. Starting orthodontic treatment can be costly and is a large commitment. Making sure your teeth are ready is important and should be a priority. Practicing good oral hygiene at home helps to take care of your teeth, and ensures your orthodontic treatment will be a success.

What if I get a cavity while I have braces?

Your dentist can usually fill it without removing your braces. Let us know so we can coordinate.

Do I need a dentist checkup before braces?

Yes. We like patients to have a recent cleaning and exam before treatment begins, and to keep up with visits every six months during treatment.

Ready To Schedule Your Consultation?

If you are interested in scheduling your orthodontic consultation please contact our office. Our team is here to help you through every step towards a beautiful smile. Your oral health is our priority, and creating beautiful smiles is what we do.

If you have questions or to schedule please Contact Our Office, and our friendly staff can assist you!

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