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Orthodontic treatments, such as braces, are a perfect solution to address issues in teeth alignment. With recent advancements in the field of dentistry, braces have become effective enough that they don’t hinder daily activities. But for chain smokers and occasional drinkers, are these habits actually affecting your braces?
In this blog, we’ll explore whether smoking and drinking are damaging your braces, and if so, what precautions you can take.
Impact of Drinking on Braces
Oral Hygiene
The intake of sugary and acidic drinks such as alcohol can lead to a significant threat to your oral hygiene. The sugar in these drinks can lead to plaque buildup on the brackets or wires of your braces. It further leads to a higher risk of cavities and gum disease, which makes your teeth straightening with braces and teeth more susceptible to damage.
Discoloration
The pigments present in alcohol can gradually stain your braces over time, further impacting their effectiveness.
Dry Mouth
Consumption of alcohol can cause dry mouth, leading to a deficiency of saliva. This can adversely affect your braces, as saliva helps neutralize acids in the mouth and wash away food particles. A decline in saliva increases the risk of bacterial accumulation and plaque buildup.
Impact of Smoking on Braces
Staining
Tobacco contains nicotine and tar, which not only harm your teeth but also impact your braces. Smoking increases the risk of staining and discoloration, making the braces less pleasant to look at.
Plaque Buildup
Smoking can lead to plaque buildup on your teeth, ultimately damaging your braces. This affects your overall alignment journey by harming its effectiveness.
Gum Diseases
Smoking while wearing braces increases the risk of gum diseases such as swelling and inflammation. Healthy gums are crucial for the success of braces treatment, as they support and hold your teeth in place.
Prolonged Treatment
If not careful, smoking can severely impact your alignment treatment by prolonging it. Extra measures may be necessary if gum disease or dental hygiene issues arise.
Tips To Manage Smoking and Drinking with Braces
Here are some expert-curated tips to help you manage or lower the impact of smoking and drinking on your braces or aligners:
1. Maintain Oral Hygiene
Regardless of your smoking and drinking habits, ensure proper oral hygiene practices. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, use dental floss, and apply an antibacterial mouthwash to keep your teeth clean and healthy while using braces.
2. Rinse with Water
Each time you consume a sugary drink or beverage, make sure to rinse your mouth. This helps remove residues, reducing the chances of plaque buildup.
3. Consider Support Groups
Joining support group programs can help you quit smoking and provide motivation to overcome the habit, ultimately benefiting your oral health and orthodontic journey.
4. Choose Drinks
Opt for braces-friendly drinks that do not cause discoloration and have less impact on the dental device. If you consume alcohol regularly, consider limiting its usage for a smoother braces journey.
In summary, both drinking and smoking can severely impact your braces. Managing these activities with orthodontic devices like braces requires proper care and maintenance. Understanding the effects of smoking and drinking on braces and taking precautionary measures can help you maintain your oral hygiene throughout your alignment journey. Orthodontic patients must follow their dentist's guidelines to achieve a healthy, confident, and beautiful smile.
FAQs
1. Can I drink alcohol with braces?
Yes, however, opting for clear liquids is usually preferred, for instance, vodka, gin, and white wine, as these don’t have dark pigments and have a reduced probability of getting stains as compared to something such as red wine.
2. Does smoking have any impact on braces?
Smoking can cause stains and discoloration over time to your orthodontic devices, especially clear braces. Moreover, it can also impact the overall effectiveness of your braces.
3. Can I smoke or drink with braces?
Tobacco products can cause stains and discoloration to your braces. It can have an impact on overall oral hygiene as well, causing plaque buildup and bacteria formation in your teeth.
4. How to maintain braces with smoking?
Regular dental cleaning by using mouthwash on a daily basis can reduce the impact of nicotine and tar on braces. However, in the end, quitting smoking is the best advice for your dental health.
5. How does smoking impact oral hygiene with braces?
Smokers are at a higher risk of getting plaque buildup, which can further lead to dental issues such as gum diseases and tooth decay.
