Braces and What to Expect

Braces often come with a negative stigma, so if you or your child is a candidate for braces, you’ll want to reduce anxiety and make the transition easier. When teeth are not straight, health issues can occur, so it is important to fix and align the teeth – this is where braces come in. Crooked teeth can also negatively impact self-esteem, so getting them straightened has a positive impact both emotionally and physically. Whether you need to have braces or not and which type is best for you or your child is something you will need to discuss with an orthodontist, since a general dentist does not put on or maintain braces.

What Are the Different Types of Braces?

These days, there are different types of braces that you can choose from, and they tend to be less noticeable than previous versions. Metal braces are still an option, but you can also talk to your orthodontist about braces that match the colour of your teeth or are clear and nearly invisible. The wires in today’s braces are also smaller, and the material helps to straighten teeth faster.

How Do Braces Work to Straighten the Teeth?

Braces apply a steady pressure to the teeth, which encourages the teeth to move to their proper position. Braces are frequently adjusted to ensure that there is always the right amount of pressure to push teeth into the correct alignment. If braces are not quite enough, other devices can be added. These are generally worn as you sleep, so don’t panic if your orthodontist also recommends headgear or neckgear to straighten your teeth. On average, it takes about two years for braces to correctly align your teeth. After the braces are removed, a retainer may be necessary to ensure that the teeth stay in their new positions. Your orthodontist will tell you when and how to use your retainer.

What Is Life Like with Braces?

When you wear braces, you need to take extra special care of your teeth, and you will also need to modify a few things to ensure that your teeth stay healthy. Braces seem to attract and catch certain foods, so when you eat, you need to check your teeth after each meal to ensure that food is not stuck between them. If you find food in your braces, use special care to remove the gunk so it doesn’t sit on your teeth and cause further problems. Since flossing can be more difficult, your dentist can give you a special kind of floss that works around your braces. When you get your braces adjusted, your orthodontist can also do a quick floss to ensure optimal cleaning. There is no need to follow a special diet, but there are certain foods you want to avoid when you have braces because they can cause problems. Foods that are sticky and hard are generally to be avoided, and you also want to avoid popcorn. Staying away from foods that are heavy in sugar will help prevent tooth decay. If you do eat or drink something sugary, be sure to brush afterward. You can live a normal life while you have braces. Remember, they are only a temporary road to a permanently beautiful smile.