By Dr Sezer Olcay, Holmdel Orthodontics
Thinking about getting braces or getting them for your child? Braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments, but it’s normal to have lots of questions before committing to the process. Types of orthodontic treatment include braces, metal or ceramic and aligners, and plastic trays.
Here’s a guide that covers everything you need to know, from the types of braces available to what you can expect during treatment.
- Why Do People Need Braces?
Braces help correct a range of dental issues, including:
- Misaligned teeth: Teeth that are crooked, crowded, or have gaps.
- Malocclusions: Problems with bite alignment, such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
- Jaw issues: Some people experience pain or difficulty chewing due to jaw misalignment, which braces can help correct.
Correcting these issues isn’t just about aesthetics. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, which helps prevent decay and gum disease and can contribute to overall oral health.
2. How Long Does the Treatment Take?
The length of treatment varies based on individual needs. Most people wear braces for 1 to 3 years, depending on the complexity of their case. Aligners usually require at least 6 to 18 months for full results. Consistency is key, especially with aligners, as they only work if worn as directed by your orthodontist.
3. Do Braces Hurt?
When you first get braces or have them tightened, it’s common to feel soreness or mild discomfort. The pain usually fades after a few days, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help. With aligners, there might be slight pressure each time you switch to a new tray. This is a sign that your teeth are moving, which means the treatment is working!
4. What Can I Eat with Braces?
With traditional braces, you’ll need to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods to prevent brackets or wires breaking. Here are some common food items to avoid:
- Sticky foods: Caramel, gum, and taffy.
- Hard foods: Nuts, hard candy, and ice.
- Crunchy foods: Popcorn, chips, and raw carrots.
Aligners, however, are removable, so you can eat as you normally would—just be sure to brush your teeth before putting them back in.
5. How Do I Clean My Teeth with Braces?
Proper oral hygiene is essential with braces to avoid staining, cavities, and gum disease. Here’s a quick cleaning routine:
- Brush after every meal to remove food particles from brackets and wires.
- Floss daily using a floss threader or special orthodontic floss to get between the brackets.
- Use an interdental brush or a water flosser to clean hard-to-reach areas.
For aligners, it’s crucial to brush your teeth before reinserting them to avoid trapping food particles.
6. Will I Need to Wear a Retainer?
Yes, wearing a retainer is essential after braces come off. Retainers help hold teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and gum tissue adjust. Not wearing a retainer can cause your teeth to shift back over time, undoing all the progress. Depending on your orthodontist’s advice, you may only need to wear your retainer at night.
7. How Often Will I Need to Visit the Orthodontist?
For traditional braces, you’ll likely need an adjustment every 4 to 8 weeks to tighten the wires and ensure progress. For aligners, visits are usually every 6 to 8 weeks to check progress and pick up your next set of trays. Regular visits are essential to ensure treatment stays on track.
8. Can Adults Get Braces?
Absolutely! More adults than ever are opting for braces, as it’s never too late to improve your smile. Options like ceramic braces and clear aligners are especially popular among adults for their subtle appearance.
Getting braces is a commitment, but it can lead to a healthier, straighter smile and improved confidence. By choosing the right type of braces, following your orthodontist’s advice, and sticking to a good oral hygiene routine, you’ll be on your way to achieving the smile you’ve always wanted.
For more information and a free consultation visit us at https://holmdelortho.com/
Holmdel Orthodontics 723 North Beers Street Suite 2A Holmdel NJ 07733 – (732) 847-3065