When and why do you need dental braces?

Cosmetic dentistry has evolved many folds in the past few years, transforming even the age-old methods like Braces. Dental Braces that have been used since decades to correct crooked teeth and a misaligned jaw now have a more appealing appearance and can even be hidden from view entirely. Also, due to the latest developments in Cosmetic Dentistry, even adults can opt for braces to straighten their teeth and get their naturally beautiful smile back.

The success rate of dental braces depends upon the degree of the underlying situation and the age of the patient. However, timely diagnosis and expert dental care have proved to be very effective for innumerable patients opting for dental braces.

Who should wear braces?

There can be several oral problems that indicate the need for braces. These include crooked, overcrowded or overlapping teeth. A "bad bite" or "open bite" is another common reason why someone might need dental braces. While some of these problems can be genetic, some might be caused due to bad habits like thumb sucking, accidents or losing baby teeth too soon.

A regular visit to your orthodontist can be very helpful as a dental expert can identify and correct the situation before it worsens. In case the patient has crooked teeth and necessarily requires braces but the orthodontic treatment is not followed, it can cause long-term damage to the teeth, plaque build-up, cavities, tartar, a bad bite and even tooth loss. Research says that 8 in 10 adults who got braces felt their lives have been touched in a fulfilling way. With the development in cosmetic dentistry, dental braces can be used at any age to correct misalignment of teeth.

How do braces work?

Getting your braces fixed on to your teeth can take one to two hours. It depends on your teeth and the kind of braces you opt for. Once the braces have been successfully put on, they help align your teeth in the desired shape by exerting constant pressure upon the teeth for an extended period. As time goes by, your jaw adapts to the pressure, aligns itself and the teeth move in the specific direction.

Once braces are on, you are required to visit the dentist swansea as per the given schedule. These visits are to ensure the correctness of the brace’s position and to check the progress of how your teeth are moving.

Types of Dental Braces

Based on the degree of misalignment of your teeth, dental history, budget and aesthetic goal, your dentist can advise you which braces to go for.

• Traditional Metal Braces- These consist of metal brackets that are connected via a thin archwire. This combination pushes and pulls your teeth into the correct alignment.

• Clear braces or aligners- Opted by adults mostly, these are custom made to your teeth’s structure and are invisible.

• Lingual Braces- These are also custom made braces and fit behind your teeth to grant the highest aesthetic appeal.

Do braces hurt?

Dental Braces installation is pretty simple and when done under expert supervision causes minimal discomfort. Once braces are installed, you might feel some soreness and pain especially after adjustments. (Each time you visit the dentist for check-up, your orthodontist makes adjustments to the archwire). If the pain becomes more than mild discomfort, consult your dentist right away.

Taking care of your dental braces

While dental braces are assured to give you a beautiful and flawless smile, they also require utmost care to do so. Once braces are installed, keep in mind the following checklist to gain the most out of braces:

• When you have just got braces, stick to eating things which are soft and involve less chewing like soft vegetables, soup, yogurt, etc. Once you get comfortable with your braces, you can expand the list above. However, it is recommended to avoid sticky and hard food as these can damage the braces.

• Practicing good oral hygiene goes without saying. Cleaning your teeth, brushing at least twice, flossing and mouthwash are essential habits to inculcate to take care of your braces.

• In the case of clear aligners, these need to be removed while eating. Also, clear aligners pose a greater risk of staining and hence aerated and caffeine drinks must be avoided.

• After eating, rinse your mouth with water to remove additional food that collects in your teeth and braces.

• If you have wire braces and any loose ends seem to poke, you may use orthodontist wax after due consultation to prevent the braces from rubbing inside your mouth.

A smile can change lives!! Dental braces are not merely a cosmetic dentistry treatment but also enhance your confidence by giving you the flawless smile you deserve. Consult your dentist right away if your teeth are visibly crooked or crowded. Dental braces are undoubtedly the best option for your oral health and cosmetic appearance.

Dr. Amit Kalra is the founder of Dentist for Chickens, has been working in the profession for the last 15 years.