CAMBRA stands for CAries Management by Risk Assessment. It is a method for assessing caries (cavity) risk and making treatment recommendations based on an individual patient’s risk for cavities. Patients in orthodontic (braces) treatment are at higher risk of developing cavities in the future.
Successful orthodontic treatment – a healthy and beautiful smile – is the result of a team effort among you, your orthodontist and your family dentist. You as the patient play a key part.
If plaque, a sticky, colorless film, accumulates around your braces, it can leave permanent white stains on your teeth called decalcification (white spot lesions). Lines and spots from decalcification will remain on your teeth for life. This may result in restorative treatment after the braces are removed.
You must keep your teeth clean and maintain good dental hygiene while you are wearing braces. Regular brushing and flossing is critical. Proper dental care may take a little extra time and effort, but it is well worth it, as it will help you obtain the best possible results from your orthodontic treatment and reduce your risk of permanent decalcification and decay.
Orthodontic treatment always requires following the orthodontist’s instructions, keeping scheduled orthodontic appointments and maintaining excellent oral hygiene to achieve the best results. You will also need to see your general dentist as recommended to continue your general dental care.
Your MPE Fund dental plan will cover the following additional benefits while you are in active orthodontic treatment (braces):
- Oral evaluations will be covered once every four months while you are in active orthodontic treatment, rather than once every six months. If your dentist feels it is necessary for you to have more frequent cleanings, you will be eligible to have a cleaning every four months as well.
- Payment for fluoride varnish, prescription fluoride toothpaste, and MI Paste are covered at each oral evaluation appointment as prescribed and dispensed by your dentist. These preventive therapies have been proven to reduce a patient’s risk of dental disease and decalcification and are therefore tools for you to keep your teeth and gums healthy during orthodontic treatment.