Does the thought of getting braces cause you stress? Starting orthodontic care might feel overwhelming and intricate, but understanding how they work can help in preserving your dental health. Keeping a bright smile doesn’t have to be a reason for concern. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about braces!
Types of Braces
There are many different types of braces available for correcting orthodontic issues. Each type has been designed to suit the individual needs of a particular patient, as every person’s teeth, gum tissues, and jawbone structure is slightly different. Your orthodontist will select the type of braces best suited to your own dental condition.
- Metal Braces – Metal braces are the most common type of braces used. They consist of metal brackets that are bonded to each tooth and connected by a wire which is then tightened over time in order to achieve your desired look. Colors can be added to them in order to customize their look.
- Clear Ceramic – Clear ceramic braces offer a more aesthetically pleasing option for those looking for discreet orthodontic treatments. These clear brackets blend easily with your teeth and make them less noticeable than traditional metal braces. They work in exactly the same way as metal braces but are designed specifically to correct mild-to-moderate misalignment issues and won’t require as many adjustments or visitations since they move teeth faster than traditional metal braces do.
- Lingual Braces – Lingual braces are just like regular metal braces but are placed on the inside surface of your teeth instead – where they remain completely invisible from sight! This makes them preferable by those who don’t want anyone noticing that they have braces on at all times – making them an ideal option for adults who don’t necessarily want anyone else noticing that they have undergone orthodontic treatment while still benefitting from its effects! Lingual also uses custom-made brackets bonded directly onto the back surface of each tooth, connected with a series of flexible archwires which move your teeth into their correct positions over time until you get that perfect smile you always dreamed about!
Eligibility and Cost
Eligibility for braces depends on the age and severity of the bite or misalignment issues. Generally speaking, children who are at least 8 years old are old enough to receive braces, but it is important to consult an orthodontist before making any decisions. Older teens and adults can also benefit from braces and may be eligible even if they have had minimal dental work done in their early years or very mild malocclusions.
The cost of braces can vary depending on the type of treatment needed and the duration of treatment. Other factors that might influence the cost include:
- insurance coverage
- location
- the amount paid upfront
- any additional services required
Typically, traditional metal brackets and wires will be the least expensive option; however, newer technologies such as lingual braces or clear ceramic braces may carry a higher price tag due to their cosmetic appeal. A consultation with an orthodontist will provide more specifics about eligibility for braces treatment and an accurate estimate of costs associated with your particular case.
Oral Hygiene and Care
Taking care of your teeth is more important than ever when you have braces. Poor oral hygiene can lead to an increased number of cavities, gum disease, and discoloration of the teeth. With that in mind, here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to taking care of your braces:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure you brush around each wire and bracket and address any areas that may be difficult to reach.
- Floss daily, being careful not to pull directly up on the wires while doing so. If necessary use a water flosser or waxed floss threaders to get beneath the wire so that all surfaces are properly cleaned.
- Use a piece of dental tape instead of regular floss for larger spaces between the brackets and teeth since it’s easier to weave into the spaces without snagging or breaking off any of the wires attached to the bracket on either side.
- Use fluoride mouthwash two times per day, particularly after eating or drinking sugary snacks and drinks; try using a special power toothbrush designed for braces as it will help with plaque removal much better than manual brushing can accomplish.
- Attend regular check-ups with your orthodontist every 6-8 weeks for adjustments; during these visits they may also clean around the brackets more thoroughly than you’re able by manually brushing at home.
Lifestyle Changes With Braces
Adding braces to your life can significantly impact the way you live, while they are on and long after they come off. Making a few small lifestyle changes during this period can help the process go smoother and help you get the best results possible with your orthodontic treatment.
While having braces, it’s important to watch what you eat and drink. You should avoid foods that are sticky or crunchy, such as popcorn, caramels, or hard/gummy candy; foods that require biting into (such as apples or corn on the cob); and chewy foods (like bagels). Also avoiding hard things like ice cubes and peanut brittle can be beneficial. Avoiding coffee, tea and beverages with added colorings is important as well since these drinks may cause staining on your orthodontic appliances. Additionally, you may have to brush more frequently than usual since bits of food may get caught in the braces when eating.
You should also work to keep your teeth clean by brushing after every meal in order to maintain healthy teeth during treatment with braces. It’s recommended you consider using an electric toothbrush in combination with fluoride toothpaste to make brushing more efficient—but manual brushing is still just as effective if done correctly. Regular flossing after meals should also be done because this helps prevent plaque from forming along the gum line which is especially difficult to reach when wearing braces. If flossing is uncomfortable for you at first—it’s ok since everyone goes through an adjustment period—you can try using waxed laces or a floss threader instead for easier access around brackets and wires.
Treatment Timeframe
The amount of time you will need to wear braces can vary based on the complexity of the orthodontic issues that you are being treated for. In general, most people will need to wear braces for approximately one to three years before the desired results are achieved. During this time, your orthodontist will need to make periodic adjustments in order for your teeth and jaw bones to move gently into their proper position.
The average treatment timeframe for adults is typically shorter than that of children due to the fact that adults have already completed their skeletal development whereas children’s mouths are still growing and developing. Additionally, adults tend to require fewer orthodontic appliances and fewer tooth movements than children which can significantly shorten their treatment time in comparison.
Furthermore, there is a high degree of variability in treatment times depending on each individual patient. Your age, the severity of your misalignment, and how compliant you are with post-treatment care will all come into play when determining how long it will take you to achieve straightened teeth with braces. A good rule of thumb is that more intricate cases generally take longer to treat while simple cases take less time; however, it is always best to discuss individual timelines with your orthodontist before starting a course of treatment!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get braces?
It typically takes about two to three hours to get braces, depending on the complexity of the treatment.
How much do braces cost?
The cost of braces varies depending on the type of braces, the length of treatment, and other factors. Generally, braces cost between RM13,500 and RM31,500.
How often will I need to visit the orthodontist when I have braces?
You will need to visit the orthodontist for regular check-ups and adjustments, usually every four to eight weeks.
Conclusion
Once you’ve made the decision to get braces, it’s important to understand the entire process. Braces can be an effective tool for achieving a perfect smile, but they come with a significant time commitment and financial investment. Your dentist or orthodontist will help you decide which type of braces are best for your situation, based on your age, lifestyle, and mouth anatomy. As with any medical procedure, it’s crucial to learn about potential risks and complications associated with braces.
It also helps to keep in mind that although having braces may require patience and perseverance for achieving the desired results, it is time well spent as keeping up with regular maintenance appointments will help create an even better result in the end. Not only do braces have functional benefits such as improved oral health care, but they can also produce aesthetic improvements too! Thanks to advances in dental technology and orthodontic treatments like Invisalign, patients of all ages can enjoy straightening their smiles without sacrificing comfort or lifestyle during the process.
