When it comes to dental health, only a dentist can help with cavities, gum disease, and more. On the other hand, an orthodontist is the one who can straighten your teeth in a certain way. During the time when a patient wears orthodontic appliances, cavities can appear quickly due to the difficulty of cleaning the teeth. If the tooth decay is small and in a hard-to-reach area, it is best to wait until the braces are removed before getting treatment.
However, if the decay is severe and prevents dental work, the orthodontist will have to take off the bracket. Cavities weaken the tooth, which can cause issues when we are trying to move the teeth into their correct positions. Fillings are used to strengthen teeth and stop bacteria from growing and causing more damage. It is possible to fill cavities with braces that are already in place, but it is much easier if you do it before you get your braces. When braces are already in place, it is more complicated as the specialist needs to know what type of filling material is being used.
In either case, spacers may be needed if large fillings are needed. It is essential to practice good oral hygiene for both teeth with fillings and those without. Be sure to schedule appointments with both your orthodontist and dentist to fill the cavity and replace the wire.
