Dental braces, otherwise known as orthodontic braces, are dental appliances. They’re used to correct crooked teeth, fix under bites, over bites, cross bites, and address a variety of other problems with the teeth.
Types of Dental Braces
There are several different types of braces in use today. Following is a brief list of the different types and uses:
Metal and Wire Braces
Metal and wire braces are the most common and traditional type of braces. They are constructed of stainless steel or titanium, and either metal wires or elastic bands. Metal or titanium brackets are cemented to the surface of each tooth, then connected by thin metal wires, or elastic bands. The role of the wires or bands is to provide pressure to move the teeth in the desired direction.
Clear Braces
Similar to metal and wire braces, clear braces consist of brackets and wires or elastics. The main difference is that clear braces are made of a ceramic material instead of metal or titanium. The purpose of clear braces is to provide a less noticeable way of correcting alignment issues.
Gold Plated Braces
Gold braces are rarely used, and usually only in situations where a patient is allergic to nickle, which is the main component of stainless steel. Gold braces can also be used if a patient prefers the color over the traditional silver color. There is no difference in how well these braces work.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces, sometimes referred to as retainers, are cemented to the back sides of teeth as opposed to the front with traditional style braces. Lingual braces are more expensive because the only real purpose of them is to conceal the fact that a patient has an orthodontic appliance.
Invisalign
Invisalign are a modern alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign is a clear device that is applied over the teeth and can be removed at any time. Ideally they should be work for 20 – 22 hours each day for maximum effect. Depending on the alignment issue being addressed, the aligners may need to be replaced every few weeks.
Who Needs Braces?
As noted, people who suffer from crooked teeth and/or bite issues are likely candidates for braces. Braces can be useful to overall dental health, and can also be used purely for cosmetic preferences. You and your dentist can discuss the reasons why you may need to have braces.
How Much do Braces Cost?
Braces can be fairly expensive, however if you have a dental benefits plan, much of the cost may be covered. Consult your benefits provider to find out what coverage you are eligible for.
How Are Braces Put On?
The first step is for you to and your dentist to discuss the reasons why you may need or want braces. During this conversation, you will also discuss which type of braces will work best for you. Then, during a series of appointments, the following will take place:
The dentist will do a full examination of your teeth. At this time, X-rays, molds and impressions may be taken.
The X-rays, molds and impressions are then analyzed to determine the exact issue with your teeth, and the best method of correcting the issue.
Prior to the full set of braces being installed, the dentist may place spacers in between back teeth to make room for the anchors that will hold the wires in place. It’s normal to allow two weeks of time in between having the spacers inserted, and finishing the procedure. This will allow the back teeth to spread apart.
Next, a special adhesive will be applied to the tooth surfaces. This adhesive will help the cement that holds the brackets in place bond to the tooth.Brackets will be placed on each tooth.
Once all the brackets are placed and fully cemented, wires will be threaded between the brackets. The wires will attach to the anchors, and will be held in place on each bracket with an elastic band.
Following the installation of the braces, you will be required to visit the dentist regularly to have the tension of the wires adjusted. This will ensure that your teeth are gently moved into the correct position.
Length of Treatment
The length of time you’ll be required to wear braces depends on the severity of the issue being corrected. Most patients must wear braces for at least two years in order to achieve optimal results, however every patient is different. Your dentist will only be able to provide you with a reasonable estimate as to the length of treatment, and then wait to see how your issue responds to the braces.
Risks
While braces can be painful initially while you get used to them, there are generally no real risks involved, other than that once the braces are removed, if you don’t properly maintain the results, your teeth could revert back to being crooked.
While you have braces, proper dental hygiene is imperative to help prevent tooth decay. Food can get stuck in your braces and must be removed immediately following eating, or plaque and tartar are imminent.
Post Treatment
After a period of time, the desired results will be achieved, and it will be time to remove the braces. Removal is a relatively quick and painless process.
Once the braces have been removed, it may be necessary to wear retainers for an additional period of time, in order to ensure that your teeth do not move back to the previous position that was treated by the braces.
Some patients will have permanent retainers (similar to lingual braces) put in if there is a high risk of teeth reverting back to the previous position. These retainers will be placed on the inside surfaces of the teeth so as not to be visible.
Summary
There are several types of dental braces available. All types can address crooked teeth and bite issues. The overall result of any type of braces is a much more attractive and esthetically pleasing smile.
At Enhance Dental Centre, we’ve helped hundreds of patients improve their smiles with the assistance of modern braces. If you believe you may require braces or have a question about improving your smile, contact the dental professionals at Enhance Dental Centre. Our dental consultations are always private and free.
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