If you have crooked, over-crooked, awkward spacing between the teeth, or other dental problems, you may require orthodontics treatment or teeth braces. There are many ways to maintain proper dental health for the long term but dental braces are the most efficient technology for it. The dental braces work by applying pressure on your teeth and lightly moving them in their perfect direction. After a long period from when the tooth is moved, it settles down in its place. The perfect time for braces is normally in childhood. It is because in childhood the jaws would let the teeth move more easily. But it does not mean that adults cannot use dental braces. Of course, they can use it. Keep in mind that healthy gums and teeth are more important than age. It is very important that the teeth are fit and healthy before orthodontic treatment can be performed. However, many people cannot have this treatment. Only a qualified dentist can decide that you are fit for orthodontics or not.
Why would anyone need braces?
There can be various reasons to have dental braces. Some of the common reasons are as following:
· Crooked or overcrowded teeth
· Too small or too big teeth
· A lot of spacing between the teeth
· Lose teeth
· Too much distance between lower and upper front teeth
· Smile appearance
How do braces feel?
Dental braces are made from metal. But some of them are also made from plastic or ceramic. They are made to be relaxed but sometimes they may feel sore and rub the skin inside your mouth. In the first few days, you will feel it larger for your mouth. But your mouth will adjust to it in a few days.
How long the treatment takes?
Orthodontic braces may take a couple of months to 2 years for the benefits to show and stabilize. However, the benefits are not limited to straight teeth. Of course, it can make your teeth straight and settle them in a better place. This will improve your teeth’ appearance and the method the teeth chew together. It makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene and clean the teeth. Many people have loose teeth. By using these braces the teeth will firm up in their place. As we know, cleaning crowded and crooked teeth is very hard. Making teeth straight will solve this problem.
Can it harm your teeth?
The teeth will be having problems only if you do not take care of them during and after the treatment. Orthodontic braces are designed to protect your teeth, not to damage your teeth. But if you eat too many sweets, it may damage your teeth permanently. So, you need to take care of what you eat to keep your teeth in good health. Because the roots and the teeth are moved, it may cause a small reduction in the size of the root bone. But it is not a harmful change. Before orthodontic treatment, knowing the potential risks is very important.
Are dental braces permanent?
It is possible that the teeth may move from their place in a natural way. The aim of orthodontic braces is to settle the teeth in their perfect position. You should keep in mind that the new place of the teeth should be stable to hold them tightly. You should follow the advice of the orthodontist and wear your braces for as long as he advises. It will rule out the chances of moving teeth back to its former location. Even a slight movement back to their place can alter the results significantly.
What care should you take?
· After orthodontic braces are fixed on your teeth, you should take good care of your oral hygiene and clean your teeth regularly and thoroughly.
· But you should do this gently so that you don’t end up breaking the braces, which are quite delicate. While cleaning your teeth, you should ensure that you clean between the teeth.
· During the treatment, have your dental braces checked by a team of dentists. Visit your dentist for a routine check-up after the treatment.
· Avoid sugar and sweet foods. You should also avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage your braces.
Final thoughts
Orthodontic braces are effective in many cases of dental problems. However, it is your dentist who can correctly advise you whether your condition calls for orthodontic treatment. It is a safe and easy procedure and there is no reason to worry about any side effects.