Will I Need to Have Teeth Extracted Before Getting Braces?

Braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments, usually used to correct crooked teeth, a misaligned bite, or crowding in the mouth. Although braces are still most common among adolescents, more and more adults and younger children are undergoing orthodontic treatment either to correct issues that were not dealt with when they were younger or to prevent problems from developing in the future. A consultation with our experienced orthodontist can help answer your questions about braces and other orthodontic treatments.

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

At one time, it was considered routine to remove teeth before placing braces, especially with younger patients who were experiencing crowding. Now, however, most orthodontists will consider other methods to alleviate crowding. These methods can include palate expansion or other means of increasing the amount of space available in the mouth. If this is not successful, or if it will not create sufficient room, extraction might be necessary to properly align the bite.

If you are concerned about having teeth extracted, your orthodontist will discuss this with you during an initial consultation. He will also provide explanations and suggestions for the best possible treatment for your teeth or those of your child. Be sure you are comfortable with the explanations for why teeth must be extracted if this approach is suggested.

How Braces Work

Braces use metal brackets and bands to gradually move the teeth into the proper position. The brackets are affixed to the surface of the teeth, and the bands are changed periodically to change the pressure on the teeth or the direction of the pressure. Typically, orthodontic treatment with braces takes a year or two. In some cases, treatment is performed in stages, with an early stage performed when the patient is younger and a later stage performed when more of the permanent teeth have arrived.

If you or your child has crooked teeth, a misaligned bite, or spaces between the teeth, please contact our office serving NYC to schedule a consultation. We’ll provide all the information you need to decide the best course of treatment.

Importance of Plaque Control During Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is intended to give you the best smile you can possibly have. Orthodontics such as braces move your teeth into the correct position, closing gaps, properly aligning your teeth, and straightening teeth that have come in crooked. During your orthodontic treatment, though, it is vitally important to keep your teeth clean and free of plaque to prevent decay and the additional problems it could create.

What is Plaque?

Plaque is a sticky substance formed as a byproduct of the actions of bacteria on your teeth. Bacteria congregate around bits of food left behind after you eat and consume them. Plaque can form as a result. With regular brushing and flossing, the majority of this plaque is removed from the teeth. Some, however, can stay behind and form tartar, a harder substance that is more difficult to remove.

Both plaque and tartar are highly acidic. They can eat into the surface of the teeth, causing damage and tooth decay. If plaque is kept under control, it is not as likely to build up into tartar, and tooth decay does not occur.

Keeping plaque off your teeth becomes more challenging when you are wearing braces. The braces interfere with thorough brushing, and it is also more difficult to floss between the teeth during orthodontic treatment.

Keeping Plaque at Bay During Orthodontic Treatment

To keep your teeth clean and plaque-free while you are wearing braces, be sure to follow the instructions provided by your orthodontist. This will include:

Avoid sticky or sugary foods
Brush regularly
Floss regularly
Visit the dentist according to your regular schedule
Visit your orthodontist as arranged

Your orthodontist will provide guidance about what kind of toothbrush and toothpaste to use during your treatment, as well as how often to brush. He will also help you with your flossing technique to ensure optimum effectiveness. By following these instructions and keeping your teeth clean, you can prevent the long-term problems that can occur if your teeth experience decay during your orthodontic treatment.

For more information about orthodontic treatment and how to keep your teeth clean while you are wearing braces, please contact Jackson Heights Orthodontics, serving Queens NY, at 718-335-4444 to schedule a consultation.