In a perfect world, everyone would have a perfect smile. Everyone would have perfect oral hygiene habits, so they wouldn’t have any cavities. Their teeth would already be straight, so there would be no need for orthodontic intervention. Unfortunately, this is not the current state of reality. Most people don’t have perfect smiles. Most people don’t have shiny, white teeth. Many people do end up needing some sort of orthodontic intervention.
Luckily, trained professionals are ready and willing to provide whatever services the public needs. Nevertheless, a lot of people are under the impression that their dental problems are so unique that they can’t receive care from an orthodontist. This is simply not true. One of the most common assumptions is that braces and fillings don’t mix. Take a look at questions people have and what the experts say.
FAQ
Can I still get braces with fillings?
The goal of every orthodontist is to create a healthy-looking smile. However, looks can be deceiving. Having a mouthful of cavities won’t necessarily interfere with braces. Nevertheless, leaving them untreated will give them time to develop into bigger problems.
When a cavity is discovered, the best course of action is to have it filled immediately. In the event that you need braces, your fillings will not disqualify you from getting them. Having your cavities filled will actually aid in keeping your teeth healthy while wearing your braces.
Should I just hold off on getting fillings until after I get my braces?
Some people are fearful of having fillings interfere with their ability to get braces, so they have cavities filled after they get braces. In and of itself, there is nothing wrong with that. Dental professionals are more than qualified to treat people with cavities.
However, doing things in reverse order makes things more difficult than they need to be. If someone has Invisalign, then filling cavities is fairly simply. However, filling cavities for an individual with traditional braces is more difficult. Due to this increased difficulty, people may end up having to pay more for fillings.
Which braces work best for people with fillings?
The field of orthodontics has advanced in the last few decades. People are no longer restricted to one choice for braces. Likewise, people with fillings aren’t restricted in their choices. However, each type of braces comes with its own set of benefits.
Traditional Braces
The most widely chosen braces are the traditional ones. These are the ones with the visible wires and brackets. Although they’re more visible than other braces, they are a great choice for people with fillings. Unlike the ones of the past, these brackets cover less surface area. This makes it easier to clean and care for teeth with fillings.
How to choose braces colors?
Ceramic Braces
Another option similar to traditional braces is the ceramic braces. Unlike their metal counterpart, ceramic braces are made to blend in with the patient’s teeth. They have the benefit of moving teeth at a faster rate than Invisalign. However, they are pricier than traditional braces. They also have a tendency to last for shorter lengths of time.
Lingual Braces
People with fillings also have the option of choosing lingual braces. These are pretty much the same as traditional metal braces. However, they are different in that the brackets are places on the inside of teeth. This gives them a similar advantage to the barely-noticeable Invisalign. However, lingual braces are better than Invisalign at making complex changes to a tooth’s alignment. Unfortunately, these braces are more difficult to clean than any other braces. For people with fillings, this may potentially interfere with their ability to care for those fillings.
Invisalign
Invisalign are plastic dental aligners worn by patients over the course of their treatment. They work by gradually shifting the teeth with a new liner every two weeks. Each tray is completely removable, so patients will be able to properly clean their teeth. However, not everyone qualifies for this course of treatment. Children and people with serious alignment issues will need to choose another course of action.
Is taking care of teeth with braces more difficult with fillings?
Once a person has a tooth filled, he or she must be careful to provide extra care for it. Fillings do an excellent job of bonding and sealing out bacteria. However, they can leak. If this occurs, then bacteria and food can get under the filling.
By their very nature, braces make taking care of fillings more difficult. However, having fillings won’t make caring for braces more difficult. Out of fear of damaging their fillings, people with fillings may actually be more diligent about caring for their braces.
Photo credit: lanuiop / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
Is the process for putting them on any different for people with fillings?
The process for getting braces is the same for people with and without fillings. At the initial consultation, a specialist will take x-rays of the patient’s teeth. An orthodontist will then evaluate the patient’s x-rays and develop a course of action. After discussing treatment options with the patient, the orthodontist can actually install the braces.
Is it more expensive to get braces if I have fillings?
The amount people pay for braces is not dependent upon whether or not they have fillings. The costs are based solely upon the cost of materials, and an individual’s treatment plan. Since people with fillings have a variety of options to choose from, their costs will also vary.
In general, people can expect to pay anywhere between $3,000 and $6,000. This amount factors in your location and treatment plan. Traditional braces are on the lower end of the spectrum. Patients who wish to have Invisalign can expect to pay more for their treatment.
How can I schedule an appointment?
There is no need to travel outside of Southington for orthodontic braces. If this is your first time seeking orthodontic treatment in Southington, or you’re simply looking for a new orthodontist in Southington, now is the time to schedule an appointment. We encourage you to come by Team Demas Orthodontics and meet us in person.
Team Demas Orthodontics
27 Meriden Ave #2a, Southington, CT 06489, USA
Phone: 860-276-0333
