Frequently Asked Questions About Having Braces

Braces are the straightening devices that orthodontists use to align their patients’ teeth. In the old days, these devices were always the same. They were silver metal brackets with wires running through. Kids who had them were called an assortment of nicknames such as “tin grin,” “metal mouth,” or “railroad tracks.” Back then, most kids were in their early or middle adolescence and lots of them did not want to get those things put on their teeth. The wires poked out and were uncomfortable; plus made the teens feel unattractive. This is not true today. The majority of orthodontic patients are thrilled to be signing up for orthodontia. Not only is this now considered a rite of passage, it’s also a way to come away with a beautiful lifetime smile. Besides, the new styles are downright cool and attractive. Here are some frequently asked questions about braces.

- What age is best to start orthodontia? Dental specialists now realize that starting earlier than the teen years is advantageous. Children as young as age seven are ready to start the early phases of tooth straightening. Beginning the process at younger ages can result in shorter treatment times and fewer teeth needing to be pulled. But even adults can benefit from having braces.

- Are they all metal? No; nowadays, these devices may be clear or a rainbow of colors and made of acrylic or plastic. There are still metal bands available but they aren’t as clunky and uncomfortable as the old models.

- How long will it take to align a person’s smile? This varies depending on the situation. The most common timetable is somewhere close to two years, give or take a little.

- How much do they cost? These apparatuses vary in price depending on the orthodontist, the region of the country and the severity of the misalignment. The average price is in the neighborhood of $5,000.

- Will dental insurance cover the costs of orthodontia? This depends on the policy. Individuals would be wise to put a call into their insurance company to get an answer. If a person doesn’t have coverage, there are other options that could work. One is to go to a dental clinic where orthodontists are being trained to straighten teeth. This would be a much less expensive alternative. County health departments also offer reduced priced dental services which may or may not include orthodontics. Many practitioners will accept monthly payments instead of a lump sum.

- Will everyone need to wear a retainer after their teeth are straightened? Usually; the majority of graduates of tooth straightening will need to wear a device called a retainer. This is a plastic and wire apparatus that will keep the systems from shifting back into crookedness. 

Braces can change a person’s life. Having crooked and misaligned grins can take a toll on a person’s self esteem. An unsightly smile can tamp down an individual’s chances of success in social, educational and eventually business situations. Having aligned teeth will also keep the jawbone and cheeks functional for the duration of a person’s lifetime.