Braces are usually suggested when it comes to improving the overall facial appearance of a patient. Problems like crowded or crooked teeth, under-bites, overbites, pain in jaw joints and improper jaw position are fixed with orthodontic treatment.
What is the ideal age to get braces?
If you have orthodontic issues, there is no age limit to go for braces dentistry. Ideally, you must be at least 10 to 14 years old to get the braces placed, when the mouth and head are still growing and teeth can be straightened. During these years, any changes in facial look can cause trouble. So, parents have to discuss it with their kids before applying braces. Along with kids, adults also wear braces to improve their smiles and fix minor problems.
Types of Braces
Your dentist will suggest the best appliance to fix your specific dental problem. But the patient can also decide the best choice. There are generally three types of braces –
- Brackets – These are the most common types of braces. You may get metal or plastic brackets. They are bonded to teeth and are a lot less seen.
- Lingual – These types of braces usually have brackets attached to the back of your teeth. Hence, they are usually hidden.
- Bands – These are the traditional braces which cover most part of your teeth. Metal bands also cover the teeth. Wires are used to place the teeth in the right position.
Are Wearing Braces Painful?
In each visit, dentists tighten the interconnected wires. It bears slight pressure on the bands or brackets to shift jaws or teeth to the right position gradually. Your jaws and teeth may feel sore a bit after each visit. You might feel little pain. Remember that it is important to extract some teeth so there will be enough space to shift the teeth with braces and to align the jaw properly.
Precautions
- Keep a kit handy all the times, which includes toothpaste, a toothbrush, a floss, lip balm, and wax.
- Wear rubber bands all the time if there are hooks, unless when brushing the teeth. Sometimes, it may hurt. But it can protect the hooks from getting stuck or digging into the cheeks. Be sure your treatment goes as smoothly as possible.
- Don’t worry in case your brackets or wires break down. Don’t pull or bend the wire as it can be painful. Simply use wet cotton or wax to apply at any steep edges and ask your orthodontist.
- Don’t worry about your braces. Just smile. If you try to hide it, people will notice it very easily. You shouldn’t be ashamed of braces as they are very common.
Conclusion
For general dental problems, you can easily consult with your family dentist. They can make a treatment plan like examinations, diagnosis, and orthodontic procedures. In the case of braces, your dentist may refer to a specialist like an ‘orthodontist’. They are well trained in prevention, development and fixing the irregularities of your teeth, jaws, and bite, and other facial problems.