White Spot Lesions and Braces: Prevention and Treatment at Life Orthodontics
At Life Orthodontics, patients often ask about potential concerns when undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces. One common issue we address is white spot lesions, chalky white marks that can appear during treatment. This blog post will cover everything you need to know about white spot lesions and how Life Orthodontics stands out in preventing them from occurring.
What Are White Spot Lesions?
White spot lesions are areas of decalcification on the enamel caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria. We often describe them as white scars on the teeth. Like scars on the skin, they can become permanent if untreated. These lesions occur when an early cavity begins to form but is halted before progressing further. While white spot lesions can happen with or without braces, they are more common during orthodontic treatment due to the challenges of cleaning around brackets and wires. Poor oral hygiene is the primary cause, as plaque accumulation produces acids that erode enamel. After braces are removed, these white spots become more apparent.
How Life Orthodontics Helps Prevent White Spot Lesions
The key to preventing white spot lesions is maintaining excellent oral hygiene. At Life Orthodontics, we take proactive measures to support our patients in keeping their teeth healthy throughout treatment. We provide specialized tools, such as Platypus flossers, to help patients clean around braces effectively. Additionally, we take time during appointments to review proper oral hygiene practices and may even brush patients’ teeth to demonstrate the best techniques for cleaning with braces.
Another essential step we take is applying Pro Seal, a protective sealant, to the teeth before placing braces. Pro Seal offers up to two years of surface protection and has been shown in studies to reduce the risk of white spot lesions significantly. Similar to the sealants used by pediatric dentists to protect molars from cavities, Pro Seal acts as a barrier against plaque and bacteria. For patients struggling with oral hygiene, we also provide topical fluoride treatments free of charge at each appointment. Studies have shown that fluoride varnish helps strengthen enamel and further reduces the risk of white spot lesions.
Treating White Spot Lesions with ICON Resin Infiltration
If white spot lesions do develop, all hope is not lost. ICON resin infiltration is a minimally invasive treatment that can significantly reduce the appearance of these lesions. This innovative approach involves infiltrating the affected enamel with a special resin, blending the lesion with the surrounding tooth structure. The process is painless, requires no drilling, and can often be completed in a single visit. ICON not only improves the cosmetic appearance of the tooth but also strengthens the enamel to prevent further damage.
Your Partner in a Healthy Smile
At Life Orthodontics, we are committed to providing care that goes beyond straightening teeth. We prioritize your overall oral health by focusing on the prevention and treatment of issues like white spot lesions. From using advanced sealants like Pro Seal to referring for cutting-edge treatments like ICON resin infiltration, we strive to ensure your smile is both beautiful and healthy.
Serving patients in Tustin, Irvine, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Orange, Anaheim, and beyond, we take pride in delivering exceptional care and an unparalleled orthodontic experience. Schedule a free consultation with Life Orthodontics today to explore the best treatment options for you or your child. Your smile is our priority, and we’re here to help you achieve the healthy, confident smile you deserve.
