If you have crooked, spaced-out teeth, or a misaligned bite, braces can align your smile. Most people are curious about “how braces work?” and whether the investment is worthwhile. Braces exert constant pressure on teeth to shift them into correct positions over time. They are an effective orthodontic treatment that can improve both looks and dental health.
If you are looking to get braces, a visit to a dentist is the best course of action. In this blog entry, we will offer an explanation of how the braces work, the different types, the treatment procedure, and how they are beneficial for you.
Types of Braces
There are several types of braces, each with their own advantages. The most suitable for you will be based on the extent of the misalignment, personal preference, and budget. The following are the most common types:
1. Traditional Metal Braces
- Made up of stainless steel wires and metal brackets
- Most suitable for severe misalignment
- Cheapest option
- Very strong
2. Ceramic Braces
- Similar to metal braces but with tooth-colored brackets
- Less noticeable, a more subtle option
- A bit more expensive than metal braces
- Require special attention to prevent staining
3. Lingual Braces
- Bonded to the back of the teeth, not visible from the front
- Custom-made for each patient
- Can be uncomfortable at first due to their placement
- Harder to clean
4. Clear Aligners (such as Invisalign)
- Removable clear trays that move teeth incrementally
- More comfortable and pleasing to the eye
- No dietary limitations as they are removable
- Needs discipline to wear 20-22 hours a day
A Saskatoon dentist can assist in determining the best braces option for your particular needs.
The Process of Getting Braces
Braces treatment is a series of a few steps, from the initial consultation to the finish. Here’s the step-by-step process:
1. Consultation and Evaluation
At your initial visit, a local dentist will look at your teeth, take X-rays, and inform you of the possible treatments. They will establish whether braces are needed and what kind of braces are best for your condition.
2. Placing the Braces
- Securing the braces typically takes 1-2 hours. Your dentist will:
- Clean and dry your teeth
- Bonding material used to secure brackets
- Archwire fixed and secured in place by elastic bands
3. Progress Checks and Adjustments
Your teeth will require to be checked every 4-6 weeks to tighten the archwire and observe whether your teeth are developing as they should. The dentist can replace elastic bands or adjust the braces to maintain the progress of the treatment.
4. Coping with Discomfort
Braces can cause mild discomfort, especially after adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help ease soreness.
5. Braces Removal and Retainers
Once your teeth have shifted into their correct positions, your braces will be removed. However, to maintain the results, you’ll need to wear a retainer. This prevents teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
Benefits of Braces
Braces provide more than an improved smile. They offer many long-term advantages, such as:
1. Better Oral Health
Crooked teeth can make it hard to clean, creating a higher risk of cavities and gum disease. Straight teeth are simpler to brush and floss, maintaining healthier oral hygiene.
2. Bite Correction
Braces correct overbites, underbites, and crossbites, avoiding issues such as jaw pain and irregular tooth wear.
3. Improved Appearance and Self-Esteem
A straight smile can enhance self-esteem and enhance facial appearance. Most people feel more at ease smiling after their braces treatment.
4. Improved Speech and Chewing Ability
Well-aligned teeth lead to clearer speech and effective chewing, which helps with digestion.
5. Prevention of Future Dental Problems
By treating misalignment at an early stage, braces prevent more serious dental issues in the future, like TMJ disorders and excessive wear on the teeth.
Straighten Your Smile with Brighton Dental
If braces are something you’re thinking of, meeting with a dentist in Saskatoon is the place to start. Brighton Dental provides top-notch orthodontic treatment to assist you in achieving the smile of your dreams. We care about delivering customized treatment plans and walking you through every step of the way.
If you’re seeking a dentist in your area, call Brighton Dental today to reserve your appointment and start on your path to a healthier, brighter smile!