Do Braces Affect Enamel?

It’s normal to worry about how braces affect teeth. Whether this concern is for yourself or your child, you will be glad to know that wearing braces does not damage the enamel. However, this doesn’t mean that treatment is safe unless you are wearing Invisalign®.

Let’s take a detailed look into how braces affect your child’s teeth:

Direct Impact of Braces on Enamel

Bracket and Band Attachment

The Adhesive Used During the Treatment

The brace’s brackets and bands are attached to the teeth with a dental adhesive. This process is known as bonding. It involves etching the enamel surface, creating a rougher area for the adhesive to grip.

This etching is usually minimal and doesn’t weaken the enamel. However, it does create a slightly rougher texture that makes the teeth vulnerable. As a result, plaque builds up, and the bacteria stays until professionally cleaned.

Bracket Removal

After treatment, removing the brackets involves scraping off the adhesive, which can damage the enamel if not done carefully. However, a Rochester pediatric dentist minimizes this risk by using specialized tools and techniques to protect the enamel.

Indirect Impact of Braces on Enamel

Plaque Accumulation

Braces create many nooks and crannies where food particles and plaque can hide. Without proper cleaning, plaque builds up. This weakens the brackets and bands. As a result, cavities form. To fix this problem, removal is necessary before treatment to seal teeth.

Increased Intake of Sugary and Acidic Foods

When you are wearing braces, it’s important to avoid certain foods. These include anything hard or sticky that can damage the braces. This doesn’t mean soft foods are safe. Anything sugary or acidic will increase the risk of enamel erosion.

The direct impact of braces on enamel can be minimized. You have modern technology to thank for this. This is why you must focus more on your oral hygiene practices and make dietary changes to prevent tooth decay.

Are you thinking about braces for your child but not sure where to start? Visit Great Outdoors Pediatric Dentistry and speak to our expert pediatric dentist to see if your child is ready to see an orthodontist. Call 603-343-1228 to book your consultation today.