Posted on May 24, 2021
Braces are used primarily to straighten teeth and improve smile aesthetics. But people may have misconceptions about braces that may impact their oral health decisions. Here are a few things you need to know about the procedure.
A child could be a candidate for braces treatment at any age past seven years. At that stage, baby teeth are replaced by permanent teeth. However, the gums and teeth are still flexible, and the patient is usually responsive to treatment.
But with modern orthodontics, you can get treatment at any age after an evaluation at the orthodontist’s office. A professional has to assess the condition of your jawbone and gums. You cannot receive braces if your bone has signs of extensive resorption.
Most people choose to go for braces treatment for aesthetic reasons. Both teens and adults have concerns about how their teeth and braces will look. Orthodontics offers a wide variety of aesthetic options to fit your preferences.
But the primary reason for getting braces is to address the misalignment of teeth. When the tooth is out of place, it can trigger a host of oral health problems. Malocclusions can affect how you chew or speak. They also increase the risk of gum diseases.
Signs of teeth misalignments:
A braces treatment procedure can address misalignments and malocclusions. But it is the technique and process that ensures successful outcomes rather than the device. Orthodontists receive further training after graduating from dental school.
Orthodontists must have the skill to diagnose each patient’s case. Every case of misalignment is unique, and a thorough assessment is necessary before they can recommend braces. A successful orthodontic procedure will restore the function of your teeth.
A braces treatment procedure aims to move the teeth back to a healthy position. It is that shift that some patients experience as aches on the gum and jaw. Fortunately, it is often mild for most people and will go away as your braces treatment progresses. Your orthodontist may propose medication to manage the pain.
After the braces procedure, routine hygiene will become even more critical. If you skip brushing and flossing your teeth daily, you risk allowing bacteria to infest the spaces between the brackets.
Your orthodontist may advise you to change your diet and avoid sugary or sticky foods. Before going to the orthodontist’s office, you can stock up on leafy greens, fruits, and juices.
You can only get braces after a thorough evaluation at the orthodontist’s office. Some dental appliances like Invisalign are not always suitable for straightening teeth. Other inconspicuous brackets could be more effective at treating your condition. That’s why a professional assessment needs to inform the treatment procedure. If you think you or your child could benefit from braces, reach out to Lee Orthodontics today for an evaluation!