Learn all about why your dentist uses braces in this guide. Find out what types of dental braces are available and discover the wonderful benefits of braces for children and adults.
Dental braces are devices that are used to correct dental problems such as overbites,
under-bites, deep bites, cross bites, crooked teeth, and other flaws of the jaws and teeth. Your dentist will install them to align and straighten the teeth. Dental braces are used to move the teeth into a healthy position and it improves their appearance. When the teeth are not in a healthy position, it can strain the muscles of the jaw and cause joint and jaw problems as well as headaches. Orthodontic treatment can people prevent such problems and reduce the strain. Keep in mind that a dentist uses braces to correct dental issues in both children and adults.
Types of Braces
Several different types of adult braces are available such as conventional metal, clear ceramic, and clear acrylic aligners. Conventional metal braces involve attaching metal wires and brackets to the teeth. They need to be adjusted from time to time in order to apply pressure to the teeth. Conventional metal braces are inexpensive and efficient. Clear ceramic braces are similar to conventional braces, but their brackets are made from tooth-colored porcelain. Clear acrylic aligners are removable, custom-fitted appliances. These types of braces are invisible and easy to clean. They tend to cost more money and they take longer to work than conventional metal braces.
Braces for Children
The ideal age for beginning orthodontic treatment ranges from ages 3 to 12. In children, the goal of treatment is to create well-aligned, straight teeth, and an improved facial profile that'll remain stable throughout adolescence.
Braces for Adults
Adult braces can correct a wide variety of dental problems including crooked teeth, overcrowded teeth, bite abnormalities, problems with jaw position, and jaw and joint problems. They also relieve pressure on the temporomandibular joints. If you ignore these problems, you'll have a higher risk of gum disease, cavities, ear pain, headaches, speech and chewing problems. Braces also improve the aesthetics of faces and smiles. Your dentist will tell you how long you'll need to wear braces. On average, most people need to wear them for a year or two.
Do I Need to Wear a Retainer?
In adults, orthodontic treatment is more difficult. Adults who need braces should be aware that they'll probably need to wear retainers at night if they want to maintain their results. Some retainers are worn permanently, but most are only used for a short period of time.
Taking Care of Your Braces
While you're wearing braces, you will need to be vigilant about your oral hygiene. This includes visiting your dentist regularly, getting regular check-ups, and brushing your teeth after meals. If you opt for acrylic aligners, it'll be easier for you to keep them clean because you can take them off when you brush, floss, and eat.
An attractive smile is just one of the wonderful benefits of treating orthodontic problems. Alleviating physical health and physical problems is just as important. When orthodontic problems are not treated, it can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, chewing difficulties, tooth loss, pain, and other dental injuries. Crowded and crooked teeth are difficult to maintain and clean. This can worsen gum disease, cause tooth decay, and lead to tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can put excessive stress on the gum tissue and bone that supports the teeth. This can lead to headaches, neck or facial pain. So if you want to prevent these problems, discuss your options with a qualified dentist.
