White Spots from Braces

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]White spots can form around braces creating a square shape when the braces are removed. This patient had poor oral hygiene during braces treatment resulting in damaged enamel.

WHITE SPOTS AND BRACES

White spots can appear during and after orthodontic treatment with braces.  They can appear under and around the braces and are more opaque (whiter/brighter) than healthy enamel. 

What are white spots from braces? What causes white spots?

White spots are caused by decalcification of tooth enamel which is the first stage of a cavity.  When food and plaque sit for long periods on and around the teeth and braces, it attracts bacteria.  These bacteria then produce acid which eats away at the enamel leading to decalcification.  When enamel becomes decalcified, it is weakened, and the damaged area forms a white spot.  Poor oral hygiene, especially with braces, greatly increases the risk of developing white spots.

How can you prevent white spots from occurring with braces?

1.  Eat a diet low in sugar and acid

• Drink water instead of soda
• Limit your snacking between meals
• Avoid eating sticky and sugary foods, such as candy

2.  Brush and floss teeth regularly to prevent build-up of food around braces and teeth

• Brush at least twice (2x) per day, ideally after every meal.  If you don’t have access to a toothbrush during the day, at least rinse your mouth out with water
• Floss your teeth at least once (1x) per day
• Use a toothpaste with fluoride 

Fortunately, if you follow these guidelines, white spots are a 100% preventable.  When you start your orthodontic treatment at Papasikos Orthodontics in Montclair, NJ, we give you specialized tools and training to help keep your teeth clean and free of white spots. 

Electric tooth brush (Oral-B or Sonicare):  We give every patient an electric toothbrush when they start treatment at our office in Montclair, NJ.  Electric toothbrushes are much more efficient at removing plaque from teeth.   

Fluoride Products:  Every patient gets a prescription strength toothpaste (Prevident5000) which contains extra fluoride. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and neutralize acid in the mouth.  Fluoride rinses such as ACT Fluoride Rinse can also be used.

Waterflosser:  For patients having difficultly flossing, we offer a Waterpik which helps flush out plaque and food around the braces.

Special flossing techniques:  We show all of our patients the proper techniques to floss underneath their braces using special tools, such as floss threaders. 

     

Enamel Sealant:  For patients at higher risk of developing white spots from braces, Dr. Papasikos will place a special varnish material to act like a shield on the surfaces of the teeth.  

 

We encourage you to call us at our Montclair, NJ location if you are considering getting braces and have concerns about white spots.  We offer a complimentary consultation and assessment.  Refer to our website for detailed videos of proper cleaning techniques for braces and Invisalign treatment.

And don’t forget to “Experience Life with Laughter!” 

 

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