Straight teeth are widely considered attractive. People with straight teeth may experience less jaw pain since they will not struggle with the dental issues that arise from tooth misalignment. Not everyone is born with straight teeth, but most people can achieve straight teeth with the proper orthodontic treatment. Braces are a fitting treatment for many people. Here are four facts you should know about orthodontic braces if you're considering this treatment for yourself or a loved one:
1. Adolescence is the ideal time for braces.
Braces can be applied at any point as long as a person's permanent teeth have grown in. However, for most people, adolescence is the ideal time for braces. Teenagers' bodies are still growing, which means their jaws and teeth are more malleable than adult's. Braces will more effectively be able to realign a person's teeth and jaws before they reach adulthood. However, braces can still help adults. A person should seek orthodontic treatment at their earliest opportunity.
2. Discomfort caused by braces can be effectively treated.
Discomfort is an expected part of orthodontic treatment. It's common for patients to feel a strong sense of pressure when braces are initially applied. This feeling will fade in time, but it will return each time your braces are tightened. Fortunately, any pain caused by braces can be effectively treated. For example, Ibuprofen can lessen the pain associated with braces adjustments. Many patients find that holding a cold compress to the side of their face also relieves their discomfort.
3. Most people will wear braces for 18 months.
Orthodontic treatment takes time. Your teeth cannot be safely and effectively moved overnight. However, if you're patient, you will eventually achieve the results you seek. On average, most people will wear braces for approximately 18 months. During this time, you will visit your orthodontist for regular checkups. Your orthodontist will tighten your braces as necessary, providing additional accessories to move your treatment along.
4. Patient compliance is crucial for the success of braces.
Braces are applied by an orthodontist. However, patient compliance is still an integral part of treatment. You must follow your orthodontist's instructions exactly for best results. You may be asked to wear rubber bands to connect your upper and lower jaw. Patients with more severe jaw misalignments may be asked to wear headgear or palate expanders. While these accessories may be uncomfortable, wearing them is essential to achieve straight, beautiful teeth.
Every time you take a bite of food, you should be grateful for your healthy teeth! A tooth can lose its health and structure quickly once decay sets in. Luckily, if you visit your dentist for regular appointments, the decay should not get too serious before your dentist notices it and can do something about it. That "something" is applying a filling. On the other hand, if the decay progresses too long before it is caught, you may need a crown or even an extraction.
We want to keep our teeth, and we know you want to keep yours. That's why we created this website to teach you more about dentists and dental care. Enjoy!