Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Braces

Braces can help you achieve a better functional and cosmetic smile. Common uses for braces include correcting teeth that are too close, too far apart and/or too crooked, as well as bite issues that include overbites, underbites and crossbites. There are many things you should know before starting braces, including how braces work, the different available types and the commitment required to wear them.

What Are Dental Braces?

Braces are a dental tool that helps realign teeth in a healthier position. Braces that are the most commonly used are the ones that are fixed. These consist of brackets that are bonded to each individual tooth, along with a wire that runs through each bracket and applies even pressure to the teeth. The dental team will check on the progress of the teeth and make the required adjustments to the braces at each of the regular appointments.

When Braces Are Recommended?

Braces should only be used after a thorough dental and orthodontic examination. An appointment with an orthodontist should be made if you have overcrowded or tangled teeth that are difficult to clean, or if you have teeth with gaps that you wish to have straightened.

Signs You May Need Braces

Some other things that can indicate braces are required are:

• Pain or difficulty eating
• Uneven or misaligned teeth
• Tongue and cheek biting
• Worn down teeth
• Protruded teeth
• Self-consciousness about your smile

Braces are available to children, teens and adults. Age should not be a determining factor for the use of braces. What should be considered when determining the use of braces in adults is the condition of the teeth and gums.

Common Types of Braces

One orthodontic treatment option is braces. There are multiple types available including traditional metal braces. 

Traditional Metal Braces

Metal braces consist of metal brackets and wires. They are suitable for straightforward and complex orthodontic cases. These braces are colour customizable with the use of elastic bands. Wires are strung through the brackets and secured using elastic bands.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces function almost the same way as metal braces, only they are less noticeable. They use clear or tooth-coloured brackets. Adult patients and older teens may find them appealing. The brackets of ceramic braces may stain if not properly maintained.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are metal and less noticeable. They are secured to the back surfaces of the metal braces and may take longer to get used to. They are not suitable for every case as they have the same restrictions as metal braces.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners consist of clear removable trays. Unlike other orthodontic braces, clear aligners do not use a fixed bracket and wire system. They are the most discreet method of orthodontics, however they only work if worn consistently so they must be of the right fit. Clear aligners may not be suitable for every case as metal braces. Professional assessment is required.

Dental check-ups should occur during orthodontic treatment. Your dentist treats decay and gum issues, while your orthodontist continues treatment during dental visits.

Does it Hurt When You Get Braces?

The process of getting braces is not painful. However, teeth may be sore and sensitive and braces may cause some aching and pressure for a few days. Adjusting braces can also make your teeth feel sore. Braces and your cheeks may rub as they need to get used to each other.

For a few days after getting braces, eat softer food. Use orthodontic wax on brackets or wires that may be hurting your mouth. Contact your dental clinic for pain, swelling, or breakage of a wire.

How Long Are You in Braces?

The amount of time spent in braces varies among each patient. The amount of time depends on the complexity of the issue, how much movement is needed, type of appliance used, and patient compliance.

Braces may be used for a few months for minor issues, however, some cases require treatment for years. Delay in treatment can be caused by broken brackets, missed appointments, or failure to comply with prescribed treatment.

What Foods Are You Allowed to Eat With Braces?

For the first few days after getting braces you should eat soft foods to decrease discomfort. These can include soup, yogurt, pasta, eggs, rice, and mashed vegetables. After the initial discomfort, you can eat a wider range of foods.

Brackets can loosen and wires can bend from certain foods. Try to avoid these:

• Hard candy and gum
• Ice
• Popcorn
• Sticky caramel
• Nuts
• Carrots and apples

These foods should be cut into pieces and not bitten directly. Avoid sugary snacks to limit plaque build up that will decay teeth and leave irreversible white spots.

How to Clean Teeth with Braces?

Brushing teeth when you have braces on is more comprehensive. Brush at the gum line and around the brackets using a fluoride toothpaste. Use an interdental brush to clean around your braces. A floss threader will help you clean the spaces in between your teeth. A water floss also helps.

Braces trap food around your mouth and also trap plaque. This can lead to staining and decay of teeth as well as poor gum health. This will also give you bad breath. Take the time you need to clean every tooth thoroughly. This is especially important when done before sleep.

Regular Appointments and Brace Repairs

Braces require frequent check ups to monitor the movement of teeth. Wires and elastics also need to be replaced during these visits.

Call your clinic for these issues:

• Loose brackets
• Digging wires
• Appliance breakage
• Pain
• Issues with fitting of removable appliance

Orthodontic wax can be used to cover a sharp wire or bracket. This is a temporary solution.

Get Professional Braces Installation at Next Care Dental Clinic

If you want to install braces in Deira, book a personalized consultation at Next Care Dental Clinic. Our Deira dental braces team can assess your teeth, bite, and gums to propose the best orthodontic options. Our Deira dental clinic patrons looking for the best dental team can explore the various braces options, treatment steps, and the oral hygiene and care instructions post treatment, to help them make the best possible informed decision. Next Care Dental Clinic looks at both adult and child braces. Installing braces is the first step toward a healthy smile that your child is looking forward to.

Conclusion

Braces require time and a significant commitment to detailed instructions, selective dietary practices, and a partnership with your orthodontist. The time spent is fully justified by the end result of an improved smile and bite.

A detailed oral exam is the best place to begin. From there, formulate questions and choose a treatment option that best addresses your clinical needs.