What is Tooth Enamel?
Before addressing concerns about braces, it helps to understand the structure of our teeth. Enamel is the protective, outermost layer - hard, resilient and the hardest substance in the body. It shields the tooth crown (the visible part above the gum) from cavities and damage. While enamel is strong, it isn't invincible: poor oral hygiene and acidic foods can break it down over time.
Can Braces Impact Tooth Enamel?
Braces are designed to gradually move teeth into position by applying gentle, controlled pressure. Brackets, wires and other components work together to shift the teeth within the jawbone, and it's natural to wonder whether this might compromise the enamel. When orthodontic treatment is performed by a qualified Specialist Orthodontist, the risk of enamel damage is minimal. Modern braces are designed to minimise friction and pressure, and therefore the likelihood of enamel erosion.
How Dental Hygiene Affects Tooth Enamel
While braces themselves don't damage enamel, poor oral hygiene during treatment can. At Cheshire Orthodontics we advise patients to brush at least twice daily - ideally after every meal - and to floss with a thin, waxed floss or floss threader to remove anything trapped between braces and teeth. Skipped hygiene during braces treatment can result in decay and discolouration.
Regular dental and orthodontic visits are also important. Frequent professional cleanings help prevent decay, and skipped check-ups raise the risk of enamel issues during treatment.
Bracket Removal: A Common Worry
Many people worry about how brackets are removed. Specialist Orthodontists undergo extensive training and use techniques that minimise any potential harm to your enamel, so the risk during bracket removal is very small.
Tips to Protect Your Enamel During Treatment
Sugar and acid both damage enamel. Certain foods can also damage braces - so it's worth avoiding sticky, hard or crunchy foods, and keeping sugary or acidic foods and drinks to a minimum.
Other ways to protect your enamel during treatment:
- **Maintain oral hygiene** - brushing and flossing become even more important because braces create extra places for plaque to collect.
- **Follow your orthodontist's instructions** - use any prescribed appliances, attend adjustment appointments, and report issues quickly.
- **Wait before brushing after acidic foods** - give it at least 30 minutes. Brushing immediately can damage softened enamel. Rinse with water in the meantime.
- **Use fluoride** - fluoride toothpaste, and a fluoride rinse at a different time of day, both help to strengthen and protect enamel.
Support and Guidance from a Specialist Orthodontist in Sandbach
Braces themselves don't ruin your enamel, but poor oral hygiene, unhealthy eating habits and missed check-ups can. At Cheshire Orthodontics we make sure patients understand how to look after their teeth through treatment so they end up with both a beautiful smile and healthy enamel underneath it.
Book a consultation with your Specialist Orthodontist in Sandbach today.