Now you’re thinking about getting braces, yes? Maybe your teeth are slightly misaligned, or your overbite could use some adjustment. If you’re wearing braces right now for whatever reason, know that you’re not alone. Millions of Americans are in the same boat as you. Getting braces as an adult is less of a social taboo now that options like clear braces aligners are available, so try not to let that fact make you feel too self-conscious. Getting braces to repair teeth is also a sort of self-care that can assist enhance your confidence, and self-care is currently trending as well.
However, it took a lot of time and work to receive braces. In this post, we will provide you with the information you need to make a well-informed decision concerning orthodontic treatment, particularly braces. Keep on reading.
What are dental braces?
Dental braces, also known as orthodontic equipment, are used to correct a variety of orthodontic issues, such as a misaligned jaw or bite, crowded or crooked teeth, or gaps between the teeth. The slots in the brackets allow a metal wire to flow through and circle the teeth from the front to the back, including the first and second molars. Rubber ties, available in a rainbow of hues, are used to fasten the orthodontic wire to the teeth.
Seek the assistance of professionals who have previously established their credibility, such as the Kumra Orthodontist Washington DC, if you want to ensure that you receive an appropriate treatment for dental braces. This dental clinic provides a wide range of dental services at low costs. That way, you may acquire a beautiful smile without breaking the bank.
How long is braces treatment?
It’s not the same in every situation. Some instances are more serious than others, and may require more time to treat. On average, patients get therapy for two to three years. On the good note, treatment for mild to moderate instances can be finished in 6-9 months.
If you are looking for a reliable orthodontist, look no further than Kumra Orthodontics Washington DC. With their expertise and commitment to patient care, Kumra Orthodontics offers comprehensive orthodontic services to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.
How to Determine Eligibility for Braces
The initial step in acquiring braces is determining whether you actually require them. Once all permanent teeth have grown in, often around the age of 12, the Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends beginning orthodontic treatment with braces. And if you have the following orthodontic problems, it’s also recommended to get braces, even when you’re already an adult:
- Crossbite
- Diastema
- Tooth Crowding
- Overbite
- Underbite
Different Types of Braces
You may choose from a number of different options when it comes to braces. Some potential choices include:
Fixed Braces
With fixed braces, your teeth are bonded to brackets and wires so that they are always in place, even whether you eat, brush, or sleep. Options for fixed orthodontic treatment range from traditional metal braces to more modern alternatives like self-ligating and lingual braces.
The most frequent components of traditional braces are metal and ceramic. Metal braces need the use of brackets that are bonded to the teeth by an orthodontist. A metal wire that connects the brackets will also be secured using elastic bands.
Brackets and archwires made of ceramic are designed to match the color of your teeth, making them less noticeable to others than metal braces. Dentists frequently use clear elastics to cover orthodontic hardware for more discretion.
Lingual Braces
Similar to traditional braces, lingual braces are made of metal brackets. However, the orthodontist will insert them behind the teeth. People won’t be able to tell right away that you’ve got braces because of this. Lingual braces, despite their covert nature, are the most expensive choice. This is due to the difficulty dentists will have in assembling, adjusting, and sterilizing them.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces eliminate the need for ties and regular adjustments by your orthodontist. They’re gentle on the gums and teeth, too. When it comes to maintaining good dental hygiene, self-ligating braces are the way to go because they don’t require elastic ties.
Removable Braces
People who are self-conscious about their teeth might benefit greatly from this orthodontic treatment because the results are nearly undetectable. Your teeth will not be damaged, and you may take them out whenever you choose. However, the only time you’re allowed to take them out is right before you eat. Otherwise, wear them for a minimum of 22 hours a day.
In this dental treatment, your dentist will give you a set of aligners that vary slightly from one another to progressively move your teeth into position throughout the course of treatment. Then, once your dentist tells you to, you should get a new set.
Food to Avoid During Dental Braces Treatment
After getting braces, there are a few things you should never eat again. Some of these may damage your braces if you don’t take precautions. It may also be difficult for you to remove its residue if they have become entangled in your wiring or brackets. Furthermore, knowing what to eat and what to avoid will maximize the effectiveness of your braces.
Some of the food you should avoid are as follows:
- Caramel
- Chips
- Popcorn
- Beef jerky
- Hard candies
Takeaway
Getting braces is a big commitment in terms of time, energy, and commitment. You’ll need to get your teeth adjusted many times, cut back on certain foods, step up your oral hygiene routine, and wear retainers thereafter. Having a healthy, attractive set of teeth, though, can do wonders for your self-esteem, making the investment in dental care well worth it.