There is no doubt about it – it is harder to keep your teeth clean if you wear braces. It’s unfortunate when those with braces develop tooth decay while simultaneously trying to improve their smile with braces. A classic example of one step forward and two steps back.
The brackets and wires on traditional metal braces create hard to reach places where harmful bacteria can thrive. If brace wearers don’t pay continual and careful attention to oral hygiene in San Antonio, their teeth can be permanently damaged. The cycle of decay starts with food particles that are trapped in the tiny spaces in and around the wires. The bacteria in the food particles multiply and the bacteria creates plaque. The plaque erodes the enamel and cavities form.
Teeth are not the only thing at risk here, San Antonio orthodontic patients can also develop gum disease which can progress quickly into periodontitis and eventual bone recession. If patients don’t improve their oral hygiene in San Antonio, they could eventually experience tooth loss. The bottom line is that orthodontic patients need to be vigilant about a healthy diet and effective oral hygiene in San Antonio. Most William J. Stewart Jr. DDS Advanced Family & Cosmetic Dentistry brace wearers know that they should avoid sticky, sugary foods that stick to their braces, but some don’t realize that any carbohydrate-based food turns into sugar. Thus, a cracker can be just as bad for your teeth as a Tootsie Roll if the particles are not removed.
Brace wearers should also watch their intake of highly-acidic foods and beverages. Though some acidic foods are very healthy, it is wise to substitute less acidic foods with foods that contain similar nutrients. There are few beverages as harmful as soda and sports drinks, both of which have the detrimental duo of acid and sugar. Furthermore, it is also important to floss while wearing braces, but that is a topic for another article.
William J. Stewart Jr. DDS Advanced Family & Cosmetic Dentistry provides quality general and cosmetic dentistry services including root canals, sedation dentistry, and dental crowns. Our thoughtful team is devoted to oral health and stunning smiles. If you are new to the San Antonio area, we invite you to call us at 210-493-3040 to schedule an exam and cleaning. Our team looks forward to meeting you.
Contact William J. Stewart Jr. DDS Advanced Family & Cosmetic Dentistry:
210-493-3040
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
13220 Huebner Rd
San Antonio, Texas
78230
