7 Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay During Orthodontic Treatment

Cavities are the most common problem linked to orthodontic treatments. Although a cavity may seem to be a minor problem, it can develop into a serious concern and even delay orthodontic treatment or leave your child with white spots or decayed teeth after braces come off. Tooth decay also increases the risk of periodontal disease, which can have a serious impact on future oral health. 

While brushing and flossing are essential first steps to preventing cavities during orthodontic treatment, there are a few more things that can help your child have the best smile possible once the wires and brackets finally come off. 

Read on to discover seven easy oral hygiene tips and lifestyle habits that help prevent cavities from the best orthodontist in Sheboygan and Manitowoc.

Seven Hacks From the Best Orthodontists in Sheboygan for Preventing Dental Cavities When You Have Traditional Metal Braces

Braces are the most effective way for teens and adults to get a beautiful smile, but they also make it easier for food and plaque to hide in hard-to-reach places. Keeping teeth clean during treatment takes a little extra effort, but it’s worth it. Here are a few simple oral hygiene hacks to keep your child’s smile healthy while your braces do their work:

1. Don't Skip Flossing

Brushing your teeth removes plaque from the surfaces of your teeth, but it can't access the narrow gaps between them where food particles and bacteria that cause tooth decay tend to gather. These spaces are ideal for food particles and cavity-causing bacteria to hide. Flossing every day can keep these difficult-to-reach areas clean and greatly minimize the risk of tooth decay. Flossing also stimulates circulation to the gum line, which can help prevent gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, from starting. Most people find using floss threaders or a water flosser to get around the brackets and wires. 

2. Switch to Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing triggers saliva production, which can help neutralize acids and remove food debris in between brushings. While it has some benefits and can be enjoyable, opting for sugar-free gum with xylitol instead of sugary options can help prevent feeding the harmful bacteria responsible for tooth decay. 

3. Brush with a Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride is a key mineral in the fight against tooth decay because it fortifies tooth enamel and helps fight against plaque and bacteria. Fluoride can also reverse the initial stages of decay by supporting the remineralization of weakened enamel. Getting fluoride treatments during your child’s regular dental visits is important, but using fluoride toothpaste in between dental visits adds even more benefits. To get the most benefits, the best orthodontists in Sheboygan recommend selecting a toothpaste that bears the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval, which confirms it contains the appropriate fluoride level. 

4. Drink Plenty of Water

Another simple way to help your kids fight cavities and plaque buildup is to encourage them to drink more water throughout the day. Every sip can help wash away food and drink particles and bacteria while also stimulating the body to produce more saliva. By choosing water over sugary drinks, your children can also avoid sugar erosion that can cause cavities. Fluoridated tap water can also help strengthen teeth in between fluoride treatments.

5. Ask About Dental Sealants Before Getting Braces

Dental sealants protect your teeth by acting as a barrier to prevent food and bacteria from settling into the deep grooves of molars and premolars that can be hard to keep clean. They are particularly beneficial for children and teens, who are often more prone to cavities. While not a substitute for good oral hygiene, sealants provide an extra layer of protection that can significantly reduce the risk factors for developing cavities or worse, tooth loss in treated teeth. 

6. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet

What your child eats or drinks has a big impact on their oral health, especially when they wear braces. Consuming a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber helps strengthen teeth and gums, while limiting sugary and acidic foods to small amounts further reduces the risk of cavities. Not only does this set your child up for a lifetime of good dental health, but it also establishes healthy eating habits for overall physical health.

7. Don’t Skip Orthodontic Appointments 

Keeping your scheduled appointments with the best orthodontists in Sheboygan is important not only for keeping your treatment progress on track, but also for preventing cavities because an orthodontist can see and manage potential issues before they worsen. 

Discover the Best Orthodontist in Sheboygan and Manitowoc for Traditional Metal Braces, Empower Braces, and Invisalign

As the best orthodontists in Sheboygan, we've got your child's smile covered from every angle, and we make it fun, too! Our state-of-the-art dental clinic includes a colorful, exciting space where kids actually look forward to their orthodontic visits. With convenient locations in Sheboygan and Manitowoc, Dr. Ethan Just and Dr. Jeff Just lead our highly skilled team with a patient-first approach that ensures every treatment plan leads to the perfect smile.