Huan Huan, from Liaoning, China, shared on social media that she had braces fitted in August 2020 at a cost of over 9,000 CNY. During the first 3 years, she noticed black spots on her teeth, but her dentist advised her to wait until the braces were removed for treatment. She also felt that one tooth wasn't aligning correctly and her front tooth had an exposed pulp. When she contacted her dentist, she was told they were on sick leave and promised to address the issues upon their return, but the matter was left unresolved.
In 2023, Huan Huan switched to a different clinic and within 3 months, the misaligned tooth was corrected. On 22/8, when her braces were removed, she discovered 8 cavities of varying severity. Fortunately, the dentist filled the cavities immediately.
Huan Huan believes the cause might be a combination of naturally weak enamel and improper cleaning. "I only brushed my teeth morning and night, rinsing with water or mouthwash after meals. I didn't know water flossers existed", she said.
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Huan Huan discovered 8 cavities of varying severity when her braces were removed. Image from video clip |
Huan Huan discovered 8 cavities of varying severity when her braces were removed. Image from video clip
Doctor Lam Dinh Dinh, Deputy Head of the Department of Odonto-Stomatology at Giang To Province's Second Traditional Medicine Hospital, explains that brackets, wires, and elastics create numerous crevices on the teeth, making it easy for food particles, especially sugar and starch, to get trapped and become a breeding ground for bacteria. Without thorough cleaning, the risk of cavities increases significantly.
"Brushing three times a day after main meals is essential", Doctor Lam advises, adding that patients should use specialized orthodontic toothbrushes, water flossers, and interdental brushes to thoroughly remove food debris around brackets and along the gum line. Doctor Lam once had to discontinue treatment for a patient over 10 years old due to poor hygiene leading to severe periodontal inflammation.
Such damage is entirely preventable. Doctors recommend that orthodontic patients brush after every meal, cleaning each tooth surface and around each bracket meticulously. They should use fluoride toothpaste, control their diet, avoiding sugary foods, carbonated drinks, and sticky foods that can easily get stuck. Regular fluoride applications at the clinic also help prevent demineralization and cavities effectively.
Hoang Dung (Ziniu News)
