Lee Orthodontics

5 Things to Know About the Braces Procedure

Posted on October 21, 2020

braces office

According to the American Association of Orthodontics, close to 4 million Americans wear braces. Yet braces have been around for centuries. While in the past, they were cumbersome contraptions, today, they have evolved to become an elegant solution for correcting dental health problems. Thanks to advancements in science, you can now fix your crooked teeth and correct your bite.

During the Procedure

A braces office today will utilize state of the art equipment to detect problems and improve results. They use tools like 3D imaging to ensure the appliance is custom made for the patient. By customizing devices, Dr lee orthodontist can reduce the risk of complications and improve outcomes.

An orthodontist will first determine if braces treatment is appropriate. The patient will then undergo a series of tests involving x-rays and molds. They then create a digital model that will serve as the blueprint for your braces.

Duration of the Procedure

The procedure will take you approximately one or two hours at the braces office. However, the process differs depending on the condition of your teeth, among other factors. Some patients may require spacers and additional appliances to ensure the procedure is successful.

Age and Braces

Braces are suitable for people of all ages. Orthodontists can treat children from as early as age seven. Younger people have a lower risk of complications because their bones are still supple and growing. Additionally, the older you are, the more susceptible to infections you will be.

However, your treatment will depend on your diagnosis. If your teeth are healthy, you can go for the procedure at a braces office. But if the orthodontist finds cavities, the process will only proceed after addressing the decaying tooth.

More than Straightening the Teeth

Orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth. When you visit an orthodontist office, they’ll look into other issues related to jaw misalignment. That’s why it’s crucial to undergo a thorough examination in order to establish the condition of your oral health before the procedure. Even though it may not seem important at that moment, you may not be aware that you have impacted tooth, bleeding gums, or cavities, which may impact your braces treatment.

One of the most prevalent dental health problems is a crocked bite. If your teeth and gums are healthy, the two rows of teeth should meet without overlapping. As it progresses, you may have difficulty talking and chewing, as well as developing problems like TMJ.

Discomfort

After the procedure, there may be some sensation of discomfort. Usually, it is mild and will go away once you get used to having braces in your mouth. But if the pain is significant, your orthodontist may prescribe some pain medication to help you with that.

The specialist might also recommend foods to avoid so that you can minimize pain when chewing. The orthodontist will request you to stay clear of chewy and sugary foods. Instead, you should adopt a diet of fruits, yogurt, oatmeal, fish, or scrambled eggs.

Bottom-Line

The braces will exert pressure slowly over two years. This gradual push will eventually yield amazing results by giving you aligned teeth. Getting braces is worth it, as it improves confidence as well as your oral and overall health. For more information on how to get braces treatment in kindly visit Lee Orthodontics in Abilene, Texas.