Common Problems with Braces Stockton, CA

As an orthodontist in Stockton, we treat both children and adults that are looking to improve their smile by straightening their teeth. At Suliman Orthodontics we have a variety of ways to do so that include braces, aligners, and removable oral appliances. Our treatment recommendations are customized based on each patients’ needs and oral health which helps to ensure that the results are stunningly beautiful.

During the course of the treatment, some patients struggle with various problems, many of which are entirely avoidable. Here is what you need to know:

Gum Disease

While wearing braces, patients throughout California and elsewhere, are at a greater risk for developing gum disease. This condition typically occurs as a result of bacteria building up along the gum line. As the bacteria become trapped in between the gums and teeth, it can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and irritation. If left untreated the condition may worsen to the point that the gums start to recede, and pockets in the gum tissue are created. This can lead to further irritation, bone loss and decay. People wearing braces are at a particular risk for this condition because of how difficult it is to clean around the gums. Drs. Suliman and Benninger can show you how to properly clean your teeth in order to prevent gum disease.

Cavities

As with gum disease, it is difficult to clean teeth while wearing braces, leading to an increased risk of getting a cavity. The metal brackets and wires that are placed onto your teeth create spaces where food, bacteria, and plaque can easily become trapped. At Suliman Orthodontics, we recommend that patients use special tools to brush around their brackets and take extra time to make sure that teeth get as clean as possible. Getting your teeth cleaned on a regular basis is another way to prevent cavities.

Staining

One of the common problems with braces is the staining that can occur. As people eat and drink, food can gather around the brackets, and if not removed in time, a stain can develop. Additionally, since it is difficult to clean teeth many people will end up with a white spot where the bracket was with the rest of the tooth looking yellow and dingy. This problem is even more common with children since it is harder for them to take care of their teeth and braces. We recommend that Stockton adults have a teeth whitening procedure after getting braces removed in order to remove any stains that have developed during the course of the treatment.

Bad Breath

This common problem is something that people throughout California struggle with. It is typically caused by the food that you eat along with an infection or poor oral hygiene. In addition to staying away from garlic, we recommend that people have their teeth cleaned several times a year in order to remove plaque and bacteria that could be causing the smell. People that wear braces or an oral appliance need to be careful to brush thoroughly because things like a retainer can easily hold onto smells.

Demineralization

Drs. Suliman and Benninger helps patients to avoid common problems with braces and demineralization is near the top of the list. This condition can occur due to acid attacking the teeth. People that suffer from acid reflux or eat foods that are high in acid content are at the greatest risk for this occurring. When it does white, scar-like marks can form on the teeth near where the bracket once was. This can also create extreme sensitivity since in demineralization the enamel is broken down, leaving both dentin and nerve endings exposed.

Loose Bracket

As an orthodontist, we find that many of our patients will get a loose bracket at some point during their treatment. The brackets are secured to the teeth using a resin composite. When eating foods that are hard like nuts, the bracket can become loose or even pop off. This can lead to severe discomfort for the surrounding cheeks. We suggest using a special wax that can be placed around and on top of the bracket until you can get to our office. This will help you to remain comfortable.

Broken Wire

This tops the chart of common problems with braces. By eating something hard, you can cause your wire to become loose. When it does, it may poke you in the cheek or other areas of your mouth, causing severe discomfort. While it may be tempting, Drs. Suliman and Benninger recommends that you do not cut the wire on your own. Instead, visit our orthodontist office to have it repaired or replaced. That way there is no risk of it accidentally getting swallowed.

Broken Rubber Bands

This is a simple one and if the rubber bands surrounding your brackets become loose, schedule an appointment to have them replaced. It is quick and easy to do so but must be completed quickly before the wire or brackets are impacted.

Loose Bands or Spacers

These items help to make the room that is necessary for teeth to move into the right position. From time to time, they can get loose based on what a person eats. Only an orthodontist can secure them in place or replace them entirely.

As an orthodontist, we understand that while there are several common problems with braces, as a whole the procedure can be completed without any significant issues. Most of the problems that patients have with braces can be prevented by eating a diet that won’t damage your teeth. For example, cutting out or reducing sugar intake along with hard objects like nuts and candy. These things are known to create many of the problems listed above.

At Suliman Orthodontics, we also recommend that patients throughout the Stockton area take good care of their teeth by brushing and flossing throughout the day in addition to having their teeth professionally cleaned. To learn more about how to keep braces in good shape and how to prevent common problems, call 209-732-1122 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Suliman.