Comprehensive Guide to Braces and Orthodontics

Comprehensive Guide to Braces and Orthodontics

What Are Braces Used For?

Braces are orthodontic devices used to correct various dental issues, including crooked or crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, and certain misalignments of the jaw. They include traditional metal braces and clear aligners. By applying light continuous pressure over an extended time, braces gradually move teeth into the desired position, improving both function and appearance. Braces enhance oral hygiene and esthetics. They improve speech, air way function, and your self image. They even make eating more comfortable and efficient. Orthodontic specialists recommend braces in addressing dental problems and pave the way for a healthy, confident smile.

Modern technology has improved braces, offering improved comfort, discretion, and faster results. Traditional metal braces are effective and affordable, using metal brackets and wires to guide teeth into their correct positions. Alternative options like tooth-colored ceramic brackets and advanced self-ligating brackets provide unique benefits, including enhanced aesthetics and reduced friction.

How Long Do They Take?

The duration of orthodontic treatment with braces varies based on the complexity of the case. On average, comprehensive treatment can take anywhere from 18 months to 3 years. Limited cases for minor adjustments can range from 3-12 months. Regular visits to the orthodontist are required to adjust the braces and monitor progress. The treatment timeline typically includes:

• Consultation and Diagnosis: 1-2 visits
• Brace Fitting/Placement: 1 visit
• Regular Adjustments: Every 4-12 weeks, depending on treatment stage
• Treatment Duration: Generally ranges from 12 to 24 months
• Retention Phase: Wearing a retainer post-treatment to maintain results

Can I Do Invisalign or Do I Need Metal Braces?

The choice between Invisalign and metal braces depends on the specific dental issues being addressed. Invisalign is effective in many cases and is popular because the aligners are clear and less noticeable than metal brackets. Aligners should be removed only for short periods during times of eating or hygiene. However, severe cases of misalignment, significant bite issues, or complex tooth movements may require traditional metal braces for higher control over the treatment. A consultation with our accredited orthodontist will determine the best option for your needs.

When Should Braces Be Started?

Orthodontic treatment with braces can be started at various ages, but it is commonly recommended during adolescence, when most of the permanent teeth have come in. Early evaluation, typically around age 8, allows the orthodontist to identify potential issues and plan for optimal treatment timing.  Starting orthodontics is easier in younger patients as the jaw is less developed and tooth movement is easier to achieve. Age causes the jaw to develop and become dense, The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends early orthodontic assessment to ensure long-term oral health. Early intervention can help avoid more complicated and lengthy treatments in the future.

Signs You May Need Braces

Consider an orthodontic consultation if you experience any of the following:

• Visibly crooked or crowded teeth
• Difficulty flossing and brushing effectively
• Frequent biting of the tongue or inside of the cheek
• Jaw discomfort or a clicking sound when chewing or upon waking
• Irregular loss of baby teeth or delayed eruption of adult teeth
• Impacted adult teeth
• Problems chewing food efficiently
• Presence of an underbite or overbite
• Missing or extra teeth

How Does Malocclusion Negatively Affect My Teeth?

Malocclusion, or misalignment of teeth, can lead to several complications, including:

• Attrition: Uneven wear of teeth due to improper alignment, leading to tooth damage and increased sensitivity. This will result in accelerated break down of teeth and restorations.
• Hygiene: Crooked or crowded teeth can be challenging to clean properly, increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and plaque buildup.
• Airway Issues: Severe misalignments can affect breathing, potentially leading to sleep apnea and other respiratory problems.

Types of Braces

• Traditional Metal Braces: Known for their efficacy and affordability, metal braces use metal brackets and wires to guide teeth into their correct positions. These braces are highly durable and can correct a wide range of dental issues efficiently.
• Ceramic Braces: These provide a near-seamless look, blending with your teeth using brackets made from ceramic or porcelain. Ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal braces but require more careful maintenance to avoid staining.
• Self-Ligating Braces: These feature brackets with built-in clips or doors to hold the wire, reducing friction and the number of appointments needed. Self-ligating braces can be made from metal or ceramic, offering a discreet and efficient treatment option.
• Lingual Braces: Mounted on the back sides of the teeth, lingual braces are virtually invisible and effectively correct many orthodontic issues. They are ideal for individuals who prioritize aesthetics and wish to avoid visible braces.
• Invisalign and Clear Aligners: Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually move teeth into place. These aligners are removable, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene and eat without restrictions. Clear aligners are suitable for mild to moderate misalignments but may not be effective for more severe orthodontic issues.

Cost and Financing: Investing in Your Smile

The cost of braces can vary depending on the type, complexity, and duration of treatment. Orthodontists often offer financing options, including in-house payment plans with minimal to zero percent interest. Discounts may be available for paying in full or for multiple family members. Dental insurance may cover part of the cost for children under 18. Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRA), or Medical Savings Accounts (MSA) can be used to pay for braces. Dental charities may also provide assistance.

Maintenance Tips: Keeping Your Braces in Top Shape

Braces are an investment in oral health, and proper care ensures you get the most out of your treatment. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Daily Cleaning: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. A water flosser and proxy brushes can help clean hard-to-reach places.
• Foods to Avoid: Hard and sticky foods can damage your braces. Choose softer foods and cut fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces.
• Emergencies: For a broken wire or bracket, contact your orthodontist immediately. Keep orthodontic wax handy to cover any sharp edges temporarily.
• Regular Check-ups: Never skip your scheduled appointments for adjustments and cleaning.

Living with Braces

Adjusting to life with braces involves some changes to your daily routine, but the results are well worth the effort. It’s common to experience some discomfort after getting braces and following adjustment appointments. This discomfort is typically due to the pressure exerted on your teeth as they begin to move. To manage this, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be effective. Rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution can also help soothe sore gums. Applying orthodontic wax to areas where braces rub against the inside of your mouth can prevent ulcers and irritation.

Braces and Different Lifestyles

• Impact on Speech: Initially, braces may slightly affect your speech, causing a lisp or other minor changes in pronunciation. This is particularly common with lingual braces due to their placement closer to the tongue. However, these changes are usually temporary, and most people quickly adapt to speaking normally with braces.
• Playing Musical Instruments: For musicians who play wind or brass instruments, braces can present a challenge. The pressure of the mouthpiece against the lips and braces can be uncomfortable, and adjusting to playing with braces may take some time. Using orthodontic wax can help alleviate discomfort, and special braces guards are available for musicians. With practice and adjustment, most musicians find they can continue to play their instruments effectively, although a temporary change in technique may be necessary.
• Participation in Sports: Participating in sports while wearing braces requires extra precautions to protect your mouth and orthodontic appliances. It’s crucial to wear a mouthguard designed for use with metal braces during any sport or activity that could result in a blow to the face. These mouthguards help cushion your lips and cheeks against cuts from the braces and protect your teeth and jaws from impact. With the right protective gear, you can continue to enjoy sports and physical activities without compromising your orthodontic treatment. Clear aligners do not present the same level of risk for athletes.

Braces for Different Age Groups

• Children: Orthodontic treatment typically starts between the ages of 8 and 14, when children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. Early intervention can address problems such as overcrowding, misaligned teeth, and bite issues, potentially reducing the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment later in life. Braces for children help guide the proper growth of jawbones and ensure enough space for emerging permanent teeth. Pediatric orthodontists use techniques to make the process as comfortable and engaging as possible, often using colorful bands and brackets to appeal to young patients.
• Teens: Teenage years are the most common time for receiving orthodontic treatment, as most permanent teeth have erupted by this age. Braces for teens are designed to correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, from simple aesthetic concerns to complex bite problems. Options like ceramic braces, Invisalign, and other discreet alternatives are particularly attractive to teenagers concerned about their appearance. Orthodontic treatment during the teenage years is highly effective due to the rapid growth and adaptability of the adolescent body, allowing for quicker and more efficient tooth movement.
• Adults: More adults are choosing to undergo orthodontic treatment than ever before, seeking to improve their smile and oral health. Adult braces come with unique challenges, including slower tooth movement due to mature bone structures and the potential presence of other dental issues, such as periodontal disease. However, with advances in orthodontic technology, adults can choose from a variety of treatment options that minimize visibility and discomfort, such as clear aligners, lingual braces, and ceramic braces.

For comprehensive orthodontic care and to determine the best treatment plan for your needs, schedule a consultation with NextGen Dental & Orthodontics in Wheeling, IL. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthier, more aligned smile. Contact us today to begin your journey towards a perfect smile!