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The Right Time for Braces

What is "orthodontics," and why do people get braces?

Orthodontics is a discipline of dentistry concerned with aligning the teeth and jaws to improve one's smile and oral health. "Ortho" means correct or straight, and "Odont" means tooth.

A dentist usually recommends braces to improve the patient's physical "orofacial" appearance. Through orthodontic treatment, problems like crooked or crowded teeth, overbites or underbites, incorrect jaw position and disorders of the jaw joints are corrected.

When is the right time for braces?

Patients with orthodontic problems can benefit from treatment at nearly any age. An ideal time for placement of braces is between 8 and 14 years of age, while the head and mouth are still growing and teeth are more accessible to straightening. And braces aren't just for kids. More and more adults are also wearing braces to correct minor problems and to improve their smiles. Ask Dr. Graham about the new invisible braces, they may work for you.

How long will I have to wear braces?

That depends upon your treatment plan. The more complicated your spacing or bite problem is, and the older you are, the longer the period of treatment, usually. Most patients can count on wearing full braces between 10 and 18 months, followed by the wearing of a retainer for at least a few months to set and align tissues surrounding straightened teeth.

Will treatment be uncomfortable?

The interconnecting wire are tightened at each visit, bearing mild pressure on the brackets or bands to shift teeth or jaws gradually into a desired position. Your teeth and jaws may feel slightly sore after each visit, but the discomfort is brief. Keep in mind also that some teeth may need to be extracted to make room for teeth being shifted with braces and for proper jaw alignment.

Do I have to avoid any foods or personal habits?

Yes. Cut down on sweets, chips and pop. Sugary and starchy foods generate acids and plaque that can cause tooth decay and promote gum disease. Cut healthy, hard foods like carrots or apples into smaller pieces. Sticky, chewy sweets like caramel can cause wire damage and loosen brackets. Avoid hard and crunchy snacks that can break braces, including popcorn, nuts, and hard candy. More dont's: ice cubes chewing, thumb sucking, excessive mouth breathing, lip biting, and pushing your tongue against your teeth.

What about home care of my braces?

With braces, oral hygiene is more important that ever. Braces have tiny spaces where food particles and plaque get trapped. Brush carefully after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and check your teeth on the mirror to make sure they're clean. Take time to floss between braces and under wires with the help of a floss threader. Have your teeth cleaned every six months to keep your gums and teeth healthy. Insufficient cleaning while wearing braces can cause enamel staining around brackets or bands.