Will Braces Damage my Teeth if I Can't See the Orthodontist?

Question

I've had braces on for about 2 years but haven't had them tightened in nearly a year. After 1 yr, I couldn't afford the payments, so I couldn't see the dr. I moved and transferred to a dr who requires $500 before beginning work on me. I can't afford that either right now, so the braces are stuck on. I'm wondering if I'll damage my teeth?

Todd Barnett, DMD · Answer

If you cannot proceed forward with treatment due to the cost, I would recommend you get the braces removed ASAP. The original orthodontist who placed your braces cannot refuse to remove them due to a lack of payment of fees.  They can however, refuse to make you retainers if your account is not paid in full.  Another orthodontist (one you did not start with) may not "want" to remove them without a cost due to the work involved and potential liability. I would suggest you contact the original orthodontist and request the braces be removed.  A final option would be to call a dental school and see if they could help.

Michael Ayzin, DDS · Answer

Thank you for your question.
Brackets do collect plaque and it is hard to keep teeth and gums clean when braces are on. I would recommend to remove them if they are not actively being used.
Whenever you are ready, you always can put them back on and continue straitening your teeth.

Kent Lauson, DDS, MS · Answer

I am sorry to hear of your circumstance that you have not been able to see an orthodontist because of financial reasons.  If you truly don't have some way to financially pay for the service, you should find someone who will remove the braces at a low cost.  The braces themselves do not cause damage to the teeth, but can encourage plaque buildup because of challenges in cleaning teeth with braces.  A bigger problem could be bad tooth movement because of extended unsupervised wire pressures on the teeth.  At least have your teeth checked out ASAP to determine likely problems.

Doug Depew, DMD, MS - Account Suspended · Answer

Just to be clear the braces themselves won't damage your teeth.  But plaque collecting around the teeth, especially in spots you can not clean well can lead to decalcification, decay, and gum disease.  If the wires are still in place, teeth may also move adversely.  So I it is very important that you seek an orthodontist to have them removed.   You can always re-start treatment at a later date.  If you are near the doctor who put them on, they should take them off at no charge.

Will Braces Damage my Teeth if I Can't See the Orthodontist?

Answers (4)

Answer: Braces won't damage your teeth, but neglect can....

Answer: Braces won't damage your teeth, but neglect can....

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Will Braces Damage my Teeth if I Can't See the Orthodontist?

Answers (4)

Answer: Braces won't damage your teeth, but neglect can....

Answer: Braces won't damage your teeth, but neglect can....

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Braces

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.