Can You Get Braces With Fillings? (Everything To Know)
If you’re considering braces but already have fillings, you might wonder if they will interfere with treatment. Good news, fillings won’t stop you from getting braces!
Braces help straighten teeth and improve oral health, while fillings restore teeth affected by cavities. Both treatments work together to create a healthier, stronger smile.
Can You Get Braces with Fillings?
A common misconception is that fillings might prevent orthodontic treatment. However, this is not true – fillings do not stop you from getting braces.
Why Fillings Won’t Affect Braces:
Orthodontists work with all dental conditions. Whether you have fillings, crowns, or other dental work, they will customize your treatment accordingly.
Treating cavities first prevents bigger issues. If left untreated, cavities can worsen and cause delays in your orthodontic plan.
Fillings help braces work better. A cavity-free mouth makes the braces process smoother and prevents oral health complications during treatment.
If you have existing cavities, it’s best to get them treated before starting braces.
Should You Get Fillings Before or After Braces?
It’s highly recommended to get fillings before braces. Here’s why:
Easier Treatment – Without brackets and wires, dentists can access and fill cavities more easily.
Lower Cost & Complexity – Fillings placed after getting braces may require adjustments, increasing costs.
Better Long-Term Oral Health – Preventing cavities before treatment ensures your teeth remain strong throughout the process.
However, if you develop a cavity after getting braces, your dentist can still treat it. They may need to work around brackets, but treatment remains possible.
How Braces Work with Fillings
The braces process remains the same, even if you have fillings:
- Consultation & X-Rays: Your orthodontist examines your teeth and creates a custom treatment plan.
- Treatment Planning: If you have large fillings, spacers (rubber bands) may be placed to create room for brackets.
- Braces Installation: Brackets and wires are applied, and your orthodontic journey begins!
Your fillings won’t interfere with braces, and orthodontists know how to adjust treatments for the best results.
Will Braces Cost More If You Have Fillings?
No, fillings do not increase the cost of braces. The price of orthodontic treatment depends on:
- Braces type (metal, ceramic, lingual, or Invisalign).
- Complexity & duration of treatment.
- Any additional procedures (extractions, spacers, or aligner adjustments).
Since misaligned teeth can make cleaning difficult, cavities may form due to food trapping. Braces help fix alignment issues, reducing cavity risks in the long run.
Best Braces Options for People with Fillings
| Braces Type | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Metal Braces | Strong, reliable, and effective. Work well with fillings and are easy to maintain. | ✔ Most durable and effective ✔ Suitable for all cases ✔ Cost-effective |
❌ Most noticeable option |
| Ceramic Braces | Less visible than metal braces, blending with natural teeth. | ✔ Less noticeable than metal braces ✔ Effective for moderate to severe cases |
❌ Can stain easily ❌ More fragile and expensive than metal braces |
| Lingual Braces (Behind-the-Teeth Braces) | Placed behind the teeth for a hidden appearance. | ✔ Completely hidden from view ✔ Effective for complex cases |
❌ More expensive ❌ Harder to clean and adjust |
| Invisalign Aligners | Clear, removable trays that gradually move teeth. | ✔ Nearly invisible ✔ Removable for easier cleaning and eating |
❌ Not suitable for severe misalignment cases ❌ Requires strong patient compliance |
Your orthodontist will help determine the best option based on your specific dental needs and treatment goals.
Caring for Braces and Fillings Together
Taking care of braces and fillings requires extra attention to oral hygiene:
Brush & Floss Daily – Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and floss threaders to clean around braces.
Avoid Sugary & Sticky Foods – Prevents cavities and protects your fillings.
Use a Fluoride Rinse – Strengthens enamel and reduces decay risk.
Regular Dental Checkups – Ensures both braces and fillings stay in good condition.
With proper care, braces and fillings can work together to give you a healthier, straighter smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces and Fillings
Can a bracket be attached to a tooth that has a filling?
Usually, yes. It depends on the size and location of the filling and how much natural tooth surface is available. If the filling covers the spot where a bracket would normally go, your orthodontist can assess the tooth and plan accordingly.
Do I need to replace old fillings before getting braces?
Having an old filling does not automatically mean it needs replacing. Your dentist should check any filling that is loose, cracked, painful, or showing signs of decay. Let your orthodontist know about any dental work your dentist recommends so the two appointments can be planned together.
What if a filling breaks or falls out while I’m wearing braces?
Contact your dentist to have the tooth checked, and tell your orthodontist as well. Your dentist can determine how to repair it, while your orthodontist can advise whether a bracket or wire needs attention. A broken filling can leave a sharp edge or cause sensitivity, so do not wait for your next routine visit to mention it.
Could a filling make it harder to keep my teeth clean during braces treatment?
The filling itself should not change how you clean your braces. Pay particular attention to the edges of fillings and the areas around brackets, where plaque can collect. Keep up with brushing, cleaning between your teeth, and regular dental checkups so your dentist can monitor both your teeth and existing dental work.
Should I see my dentist or my orthodontist if a filled tooth starts hurting?
Start with your dentist if the pain seems to be coming from the tooth or filling, especially if it is sharp, persistent, or sensitive to hot or cold. Let your orthodontist know too, particularly if the discomfort began after an adjustment or involves a bracket. They can help you work out which part of your care needs attention.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering braces with fillings, go for it! There’s no reason to worry, as orthodontists routinely treat patients with existing dental work.
Remember:
Fillings do not interfere with braces.
Get cavities treated first for a smoother process.
Choose the best braces option based on your needs.
Maintain great oral hygiene to keep your teeth strong.
Ready for your perfect smile? Schedule a consultation Dr. Bill Redmond and start your braces journey today!
Medical Disclaimer
The information in this article is for general education and does not replace advice from your orthodontist, dentist, or medical provider. Every patient’s needs are different. If you have a question about your treatment, or an appliance is broken, loose, or causing discomfort, contact Bill Redmond Orthodontics for guidance. If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or a serious injury to your mouth or face, call 911 or seek emergency care immediately.
Can You Get Braces With Fillings? (Everything To Know)
Dr. Bill Redmond is a native of Southern California, the son of an orthodontist and the husband of a general dentist. That makes family gatherings pretty interesting…if you like teeth!
