Aesthetic Orthodontic
Braces
What Are Dental Braces?
Dental braces or orthodontic braces are devices used in orthodontics that align and straighten teeth and help position them about a person’s bite, while also aiming to improve dental health. Braces can be either cosmetic or structural. Dental braces are often used in conjunction with other orthodontic appliances to help widen the palate or jaws and to otherwise assist in shaping the teeth and jaws.
Causes Of Malocclusion
Occlusion refers to the alignment of teeth and the way that the upper and lower teeth fit together (bite).
Malocclusion is most often hereditary. It causes tooth overcrowding or abnormal bite patterns. The shape of the jaws or birth defects such as cleft lip and palate may also be reasons for a malocclusion.
Other causes include:
Childhood habits such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, pacifier use beyond age 3, and prolonged use of a bottle
Extra teeth, lost teeth, impacted teeth, or abnormally shaped teeth
Ill-fitting dental fillings, crowns, dental appliances, retainers, or braces
Misalignment of jaw fractures after a severe injury
Tumors of the mouth and jaw
Why Do You Need The Orthodontics Treatment?
Following are some of the reasons why I need orthodontic treatment.
- Orthodontics Can Improve Your Health
- Braces Can Help You Breathe Better
- Braces Can Increase Your Confidence and Self-Esteem
- Braces Can Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease
- People With Straight Teeth Have a Better Chance of Being Offered a Good Job Braces Can Help Your Social Life
Do I Need Braces?
If your orthodontist or dentist recommends braces, you probably need them. You can always ask your orthodontist how necessary they are, but keep in mind that getting braces is not just about a better smile. Having straighter teeth also helps keep you healthier and can prevent dental and jaw issues down the road.
Symptoms
- Abnormal alignment of teeth
- Abnormal appearance of the face
- Abnormal appearance of the face
- Speech difficulties (rare), including lisp
- Mouth breathing (breathing through the mouth without closing the lips)
- Inability to bite into food correctly (open bite)
Who Needs The Procedure?
Malocclusion is the dental term for misaligned teeth that can come in nine different types:
Braces are necessary when one faces one or more of the following issues:-
Overcrowding
Overcrowding is among the most common causes of adults seeking orthodontic treatment. It is caused because of the lacking space in your mouth.
Spacing
Spacing is caused due to small teeth, prolonged thumb sucking, missing teeth, and tongue thrusting. This issue occurs between two or more teeth, leading to overcrowding and impacting a child’s permanent teeth eruption process.
Open Bite
When your lower and upper front teeth don’t overlap, it causes an opening inside the mouth. This is called an open bite.
Pros And Cons Of The Braces
The Pros
Beautiful, Straight Teeth
A straight smile is a healthy one, with minimized chances of developing tooth decay, gum disease, periodontal disease, and more.
Enhances Oral Health
If the problem is never addressed, the risk of tooth decay and other oral diseases can heighten, Improve Your Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem
The Cons
- Braces Can Be Very Noticeable
- They Can Be Difficult to Clean
- Braces trap food far easier than your teeth do
- Braces are an expensive proposition.
What Are The Types Of Braces?
There are several different types of braces. The type that’s best for you depends on a few factors, including the kind of issue you have, the severity of your condition, and your personal preferences.
- Metal braces
- Ceramic braces
- Lingual braces
- Self-ligating braces
- Clear aligners
How Should I Care For My Braces?
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss between your teeth and around your braces once a day. (Ask your dentist or orthodontist about special floss for braces.)
- If you have clear aligners, clean them every day and store them properly when you’re not wearing them.
- Swish with an alcohol-free, antibacterial mouthwash twice a day.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods.
- Visit your orthodontist regularly for tightening and maintenance.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and routine dental care.
FAQS For Braces Treatment
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Dr. Willes can straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structures, and improve the function of your smile.
What’s the best age to visit the orthodontist?
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great time to see an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens. About one in every five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. (Dr. Willes has even improved the smiles of patients in their 80s!) Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or a child, any age is a good time to visit the orthodontist.
How can I take care of my teeth if I’m wearing braces or a retainer?
ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask your family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
If you take out your retainer to eat, make sure you brush your teeth, and floss, and remember to keep your retainer safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken.
Do braces hurt?
Braces do not often hurt, though you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple of days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces.
Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?
With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between your braces.