Dentists and orthodontists suggest braces for various reasons. While some patients choose to get braces to improve personal appearance, orthodontists will most often suggest them to enhance a patient’s overall oral comfort, health, and performance. Before investing in braces it is important to answer a few preliminary questions. Doing a little research beforehand can help to minimize surprises during orthodontic treatment.
What do I need to know before getting braces?
Braces can be costly! Be sure to look around at options for orthodontic treatment. Braces come in all types–and are designed to fit the specific needs of different patients. Traditional metal braces and ceramic braces are mounted on the outside of the teeth. Lingual braces, while very much like traditional metal braces, are mounted on inner surface of the teeth. The Invisalign system is a series of 18-30 clear retainers molded to fit and move teeth.
Each system has its pros and cons, so it is important to choose an orthodontist who knows what is appropriate in each patient’s situation. Patients who entrust the care of their teeth to the finest orthodontic specialists receive the finest results.
Because the average length of time for treatment is 2.5 years, it is important to remember that wearing braces may warrant a few significant changes in lifestyle habits. For instance, those with braces should avoid sticky foods (such as taffy-like candy and gum) that could potentially pull on the brackets, as well as hard foods that could place pressure on the brackets while chewing.
Traditional braces have a bracket mounted on the tooth with a wire running through to tighten the teeth—the space in between creates a pocket where food can easily become lodged. It is essential to keep the braces clean to prevent staining and decay on the front of the teeth. (Small brushes are available for reaching the tricky in-between-bracket spots.)
When is it appropriate to get braces? Dentists and orthodontists suggest that having braces earlier in life can be beneficial, as waiting too long can lead to teeth shifting and incorrectly settling. In some cases children can start wearing braces as young as 7 years old. Braces are an easier and less-painful option for the prevention of unwanted teeth movement.
Those who are good to their teeth will find that their teeth will be good to them. Decide today to keep your smile brilliant – contact us to schedule an appointment!