Is Decalcification a Reason not to get Braces?

[amyhenna]

I am going to be getting braces in a few weeks, and just learned about the risk of decalcifactions.

I plan to take VERY good care of my teeth, and will do everything in my power to not get these. My question is, will this be enough? Are decalcifications completely under our control to avoid, or is some of it left up to the gods to decide?

[margarets]

No. Zillions of people get braces and generally have no problems with decalcification.

[katsface]

I was told decalcification is largely due to poor hygiene while in braces. That's why you so often see kids with white spots on their teeth during/after braces. But adults are likely to take their increased hygiene demands more seriously than kids. My ortho goes so far as to prescribe Rx fluoride wash and paste for all of his patients to prevent decalcification.

I was a little worried about this at first too, but from what I understand it's largely preventable.

[Ciara]

This is my 2nd time around and got no decalcification the 1st time. As long as you take really good care of your teeth, use a toothpaste with fluoride, and a good mouth wash you should be fine. Your dentist or ortho can also advise you on this. Some will prescribe fluoride trays etc if they think you need it.

[anarchy45]

It seems to me that your concern about decalcification is more of an excuse than a reason

[prairiehouse]

It's shouldn't be a significant concern if you brush with proper technique and for the recommended duration.

[sweetcynic]

It's a big issue with kids(~45% of them, mostly boys, get it) but not with those with good hygiene. Brush and floss daily, and have regular cleanings and you should be fine. Brush once a day and have some soda before bed (like a lot of teens/preteens do), and you probably will get decalcified teeth.