More and more teenagers and adolescents in the UK are being treated with orthodontic braces. These are straightening devices made from plastic, ceramic and metal that are attached to the teeth in an effort to manipulate them into a more aesthetically pleasing position. Braces are used to treat a variety of alignment, spacing and bite issues

More modern braces such as the Inman aligner and Invisalign can be removed for the purposes of teeth cleaning but the majority of patients undergoing orthodontic straightening are treated with the traditional style fixed metal, or train track, braces. These braces function by attaching metal wires to fixed brackets on each tooth. They provide a very effective treatment but can cause problems when it comes to teeth cleaning.

The brackets fixed to the teeth mean it is impossible to clean the areas under them. They are also protected from enamel erosion and the affects of discolouration. While this is a bonus for this specific area, if the patient is not cleaning their teeth effectively, when the braces are removed they are left with small square patches of lighter coloured enamel that is very difficult or even impossible to correct.

Leeds dentists therefore recommend that patients who wear braces are especially vigilant when it comes to cleaning their teeth. They will be more than happy to demonstrate the most effective ways of effectively cleaning the teeth when wearing braces to limit the chances of any discolouration damage towards the end of treatment. After all, the last thing you want when you finally have your braces removed is to have their new appearance spoiled by discoloration and uneven enamel.

There are also dangers to do with heightened risk or tooth decay due to food being caught in and around the brackets. These act as breeding grounds for bacteria and can accelerate the process of tooth decay if the braces themselves are not properly cleaned.