Wearing braces can prevent a lot of pain and trouble in the future. Patients of almost any age can enjoy the benefits from braces.
What are braces?
Braces are orthodontic hardware worn to straighten teeth. There are two main types of braces: conventional and clear aligners. Conventional braces are the metal brackets and wires that most of us know. They are sometimes worn with headgear at night.
Clear dental aligners are the latest in orthodontic hardware technology. They are plastic, as opposed to metal, and they slide over your teeth. In most cases, they are almost invisible and are growing in popularity. The problem is, clear dental aligners are not for everyone. They are often worn by teens and adults, but not children or in more complex orthodontic cases.
How do I know if I need braces?
Braces are not just used to straighten teeth for cosmetic purposes. They also help to correct malocclusion, or “bad bite,” which can be painful. The causes of malocclusion vary.
- Crowded teeth
- Extra teeth
- Missing teeth
- Misaligned jaws
How does malocclusion happen?
Malocclusion is often inherited. Yet, it is sometimes also caused by accidents. It can result from early or late baby teeth loss or by poor oral habits that have continued for a long period of time.
How do braces correct malocclusion?
While braces are often worn by patients between 10 and 14, adults are seeing the benefits of braces as well.
Braces can help malocclusion by doing the following:
- Guiding permanent teeth into their proper positions
- Reserving or gaining space for erupting permanent teeth
- Reducing the potential for jaw joint damage by encouraging proper jaw growth
- Improving some speech problems
- Shortening treatment time for later corrective orthodontics
- Improving lip closure
What is the procedure for getting braces?
Once doctor determines if you are a good candidate for treatment, he will talk to you about your options. He will then take X-rays of your teeth and may take an impression of your bite. This occurs at your first appointment.
At your next appointment, doctor will discuss your personalized treatment goals and plan. If you have any questions before treatment begins, this is a great time to ask them.
We will then set up an appointment to place your braces and begin your treatment. Once braces are in place, you will come need to see the dentist every four to eight weeks. This allows to check your progress and make any adjustments necessary.