Parents, teens, and adults all may wonder if braces are really necessary. Sometimes it’s obvious that orthodontics would benefit the patient, and in other cases it’s not so clear. Braces really are something that each individual or family must decide whether to pursue, of course with input from an orthodontist. However, there are some circumstances where braces are usually the ideal solution.
The main goal of treatment is to not only improve the patient’s appearance, but also to obtain a healthy bite. Every person’s mouth is different, which means treatment will vary and so will the results. That’s a good thing though, because everyone wants their own individual smile.
Aside from the cosmetic benefits that wearing braces will provide, there are some important reasons that some people will medically benefit from treatment. Problems in the way teeth are aligned can cause serious dental issues, which can worsen over time. If a patient’s teeth has slight crowding or gaps, these are the cases that may or may not need braces depending on the person’s desires. More serious cases are when the upper or lower jaw is out of alignment, and braces can really be important.
When the lower or upper jaw protrudes forward, a number of problems can result. These may include jaw pain, tooth decay, gum disease, speech impediments, teeth grinding or clenching, or difficulty eating and chewing. Patients may not even realize these types of issues can be linked to jaw misalignment. By moving the patient’s jaws and teeth through the use of braces, an orthodontist can help reduce or eliminate these types of problems that patients experience.
There isn’t always a definite answer, just as all patients have varying opinions about treatment. The key is to work together with an orthodontist, express goals, and agree upon a customized plan for treatment.
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For many people, the idea of wearing braces is daunting. They have the reputation of being unsightly, uncomfortable, and generally a hassle. The good news is that advancements in technology give patients a reason to smile with an innovative orthodontic treatment called Invisalign.
Invisalign is a series of clear plastic aligners that painlessly move your teeth into the correct position. The aligners are custom-made for each patient by taking a mouth mold. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks, and then the patient changes to a different aligner. The series of aligners slowly moves the teeth until they are exactly where they should be. The length of treatment is usually only about one year, a shorter period of time than most patients were traditional braces.
Of course the timeframe and success of Invisalign depends on the amount of correction needed and how consistently the patient wears the aligners. This is because, unlike regular braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed to eat, drink, and perform oral hygiene tasks. For the best results, patients should wear the aligners 22 hours a day. The more a patient wears the aligners, the faster treatment progresses.
Another great advantage of Invisalign is that patients can continue eating the foods they enjoy. Since the aligners are removable, there are no diet restrictions that keep certain foods off limits. Also, it is easier to keep the teeth clean because brushing and flossing are done without the aligners.
During treatment, patients visit the dentist once a month for checkups. Traditional braces patients dread these types of appointments because that means a painful adjustment, but Invisalign checkups are merely for monitoring progress. In the end, patients obtain a great smile without the pain or embarrassment associated with braces.
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It can be uncomfortable after getting braces for the first time or after adjustments. Whenever you experience soreness, there are some things you can do to help ease your discomfort.
Soft foods
Eat foods that are soft, like bananas, oatmeal, mashed potatoes, and soup. Avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods until the pain subsides and you can reintroduce those items.
Cold drinks
Drink beverages that are chilled as cold as you can enjoy, because it can soothe aching gums and nerves. Cold drinks can give your mouth a bit of a numb feeling. Popsicles and ice cream are other good choices to freeze your mouth a bit.
Dental wax
Your orthodontist will provide you with wax designed to help eliminate friction between your braces and mouth, which can cause painful cuts or sores. If you develop an irritated area, roll a small bit of wax into a ball and place it on the wire or bracket that is bothering you. This gives your mouth time to heal and form a callus that protects that area.
Oral anesthetic
Try using an over-the-counter anesthetic such as Orajel to temporarily relieve your discomfort. Ask your orthodontist before you apply medication, and follow the packaging directions.
Salt water
An effective remedy that helps relieve soreness is rinsing with salt water. Add a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water, stir it until it dissolves, and then rinse with this mixture a few times a day.
Pain relievers
Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help with the pain of braces. Ibuprofen also reduces inflammation, which can be an added bonus. Follow the package directions for taking any medications.
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Anyone can enjoy a straight, attractive smile. Many people assume that orthodontic treatment is just for kids and teens, but that isn’t the case. Approximately one million adults wear braces, suggesting that age shouldn’t influence orthodontic treatment decisions. Celebrities like Tom Cruise, Nicholas Cage, and Gwen Stefani are a few famous examples of adults who chose to straighten their teeth.
The following points might help you make your decision if you are thinking about adult orthodontics:
Crooked teeth can create health issues.
When your teeth aren’t straight brushing and flossing are more difficult, which may increase your risk of cavities. Chewing issues and alignment problems, like TMJ dysfunction, can also arise if your teeth aren’t in the proper position.
Misaligned teeth may contribute to gum disease.
If you have crooked teeth, it is harder to remove plaque, the sticky layer that forms on teeth and gums. Plaque build up often leads to tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease.
Adults have options for orthodontic treatment.
At one time, metal braces were the only choice for people who wanted a straighter smile. Modern advances mean that adults can attain the beautiful smiles they desire with less conspicuous orthodontic treatments such as ceramic brackets, lingual braces, or Invisalign clear braces.
A flawless smile has benefits.
Not only will your oral health improve, but you will look and feel better than ever with a stunning smile. Improved confidence and a warm presence can help you achieve personal and professional success.
Consider our Orthodontic team in Sherman Oaks California – Dr. Fotovat – Burbank Orthodontist – WebBraces.com
Did you know that 25 percent of patients seeking orthodontic treatment are adults? You are never too old to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile. Not only will straightening your teeth boost confidence, but it will also improve your oral health because crooked teeth are harder to brush and floss properly.
If you are considering orthodontic treatment, these basics points will help you make an informed decision about your options.
How is adult treatment different than orthodontics for kids?
Because older patients are no longer growing, orthodontic treatment at this point is designed help adults attain a vibrant, healthy smile.
Do I have to wear metal braces?
Thanks to advances in orthodontics, adults have more discreet choices for straightening their teeth. Ceramic brackets, lingual braces, and Invisalign clear aligners allow you to achieve an attractive smile without compromising your mature image.
My teeth have been crooked for years. Why should I consider treatment now?
Your smile will not only look better, but your teeth and jaws will function better if they are in proper alignment.
How long will treatment take?
Though it is difficult to predict the exact time frame, your orthodontist will give you an estimated time table based on your case and expected progress. The average time for treatment is 18 to 24 months.
Can orthodontic treatment help with jaw pain?
If misalignment is the cause, correcting your bite should help with the discomfort. If your pain is caused by clenching and grinding at night, your orthodontist can fit you for a night guard.
It’s time to schedule a visit to our Sherman Oaks, CA orthodontic office – Mehdi Fotovat, DDS.
At one time, braces were primarily seen as a treatment option for kids and teenagers. Modern advances and the desire for an attractive smile have changed that idea. Now, many adults are seeking orthodontic care. In fact, estimates suggest that over 1 million Americans 18 years and older are wearing braces.
One reason for this shift is the benefits that come from having a perfect smile. Most adults want to project a confident, positive image to the people they meet. A stunning smile helps convey this message. Your oral health also improves when you have straight teeth. Crooked teeth are harder to clean, which can lead to a greater risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
As orthodontics has evolved, the choices for adults who want to correct their teeth have improved. The embarrassment and discomfort of traditional metal orthodontia probably deterred many adults from considering treatment. Luckily, options like clear brackets, lingual braces, and Invisalign clear braces make it possible for image-conscious adults to achieve the smiles of their dreams.
Barely noticeable, clear or ceramic braces work like their metal counterparts in that they are bonded to the teeth for the duration of treatment, but most people won’t notice you are wearing them. With lingual braces, the brackets actually attach to the back of your teeth. The Invisalign system uses a series of custom, removable aligners to shift teeth into the proper position. During a consultation appointment, your orthodontist can explain your choices, answer any questions, and make recommendations for your specific situation.
Happy Holidays from our orthodontic dental practice in Sherman Oaks, CA – Mehdi Fotovat, DDS
