You might think that straightening your teeth only has aesthetic benefits, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Crooked teeth can be harder to clean, which can lead to tooth decay or periodontal disease. Teeth that don’t fit correctly can make it harder to chew, leading to headaches, shoulder or back pain, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

WHAT ARE BRACES?

Dental braces are appliances which are used to align or straighten the teeth and guide the teeth to the corrected position. They are made up of wires, brackets, and bands.
Braces aid to correct irregular teeth positioning, jaw correction, improvement in chewing and smile aesthetics. Your dentist is the best person to guide on treatment options and modalities depending upon dentition.
How Do I Know if I need Braces (Orthodontic Treatment) ?
The two main reasons for an orthodontic treatment are: - aesthetics and function. This treatment allows your teeth to function in a better way as well as enhances your self-image by having an attractive smile and it also helps to keep the teeth clean. You need braces if you are facing any of the following issues:

1. Crowding / Haphazardly placed teeth: that can lead to poor oral hygiene and can also be the reason for Dental Caries (Cavities)
2. Improper Bite: that affects chewing efficiency
3. Crooked teeth: which can be a major reason for Periodontal problems such as Bleeding Gums, Halitosis (Bad Breath) and Tooth Mobility (Premature loss of teeth)
4. Forwardly placed / Proclined Teeth: that doesnot  allow the lips to close together.
6. Open Bite: The vertical gap between upper and lower front teeth while biting which can cause speech problems.
7. Spacing: The teeth doesnot seem to fill up your mouth and there appears to be random gaps or spaces between teeth.
8. Crossbite: When your upper teeth fits behind your lower teeth when your mouth is closed.

What is the right time to get braces?

Every individual is different. Orthodontic treatment can be started as young as 7 years old. There is no upper limit in terms of age for Braces.
If you have good oral health and firm teeth, you can get braces at any age.
There is various kind of Orthodontic treatment available for all ages. But the recommended age for a child for their first orthodontic visit is around the age of 7-13.

What types of braces are available?

Metal Conventional Braces:
These are the traditional and most common type of braces.  These are made of durable stainless steel and are small and thin which fits comfortably with the teeth. These braces are durable and suitable for the pressure on your teeth. These require elastics which come in a variety of colors to tie the wire to the braces.  There is no age limit attached to these, as patients of all ages can choose to straighten their teeth using metal braces. They are easy to maintain and are less expensive than any other type of braces. The drawback is that they are esthetically not pleasing as they are visible even from a distance too.

Metal Self Ligating Braces
These are metal Brackets with a shutter or lock system and do not require the use of elastic to tie the wire. In comparison to traditional metal braces, metal self-ligating braces are more comfortable and smaller in size. These are helpful in achieving arch expansion and minimize the need for extraction.

Ceramic braces- These braces are made of clear ceramic material. The best things about these braces are that they are inconspicuous i.e. They are clear or colored to match your teeth and are more esthetic. The shape and size are the same as metal braces. These are less visible on the teeth and as a result, are preferred by older teenagers and adults who might have aesthetic concerns. Being less prominent, they require more care and protection compared to metal braces.

Aligners
Clear Aligners are medical grade plastic trays that do not require any braces or wire. They are totally invisible hence; the aesthetic concerns are duly met and make them very appealing with adults who need orthodontic treatment. Though placed inside they do not have any food restrictions associated. On the other hand, transparent braces are highly comfortable and hygienic. Clear Aligners also hide existing gaps.

Does getting braces hurt?

Generally, it’s painless to put on braces; sometimes some people may experience minor pains in the first few days. But as you adjust to wearing the appliances it becomes easier. Periodic adjustment sometimes causes soreness and it typically last only for a short time. Painkillers can be used to get relief from pain.

How long will treatment take?

It depends upon the severity of problem and usually varies from 6 months – 2 years.

How often will I come in for an appointment?

It mostly depends on what treatment is being done and how much you need to be monitored according to the treatment. During the treatment you may have to visit every 4-6 weeks.

Will I need to have any teeth extracted?

Not always. If the size of your mouth is small to properly accommodate all the teeth or if you have impacted teeth i.e. teeth which are trapped beneath the gum line- then extraction may be necessary.

Do I need to change my diet during the treatment?

Yes, you have to avoid the type of foods that could damage the braces or gets trapped in your braces like- raw & hard fruits, hard candy, sticky food, and crunchy food including ice and popcorn, etc.

How long do I wear retainer after the treatment?

For as long as your orthodontist prescribes you. But it usually is for 6 months to a year.

Post treatment care for braces

1. Brush & Floss twice a day to keep your teeth healthy. Healthy teeth respond better to the treatment.
2. Visit your dentist on time for follow-up checks. Make a note of your appointments and follow suggestions, if any.
3. Be patient. The treatment duration may vary depending on the case. The teeth will take the time to adjust accordingly.

DO’S AND DON’TS WITH BRACES ON

 

DO’S

1. Try and avoid sticky food like gum or caramel
2. Ask for a mouth guard, if you play a sport
3. Consume drinks which are low on sugar content and not carbonated
4. Brush after every meal and never let food stuck on your braces
5. Visit your dentist on every follow-up

DON’TS

1. Don’t chew hard food and ice
2. Do not bite your fingernails
3. Do not consume more than one soda a week
4. Do not forget to floss like a boss

We at Sood Dental Care and Implant Centre are committed to providing you with comprehensive dental solutions for all your dental problems. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, brighter smile! To make an appointment Call us on +91 9914 066 700