Braces are a popular and effective way to straighten crooked or crowded teeth, and correct bite problems. Most types are usually worn for about two years depending on each patient’s specific issues. This means that selecting the type of braces you’d like to wear is important, as they will be with you for quite some time. Here are some facts about three common choices in braces.
Metal
The image most people come up with when they picture traditional braces, it is the metal type that has been around for many years. Metal brackets are attached to your teeth and then a metal wire is connected through the brackets. This type of treatment is proven to be very effective, but the main complaint is how visible they are. Some patients are self- conscious about having a mouth full of metal braces, which can also be uncomfortable when the wires poke the inside of your mouth or tongue. Special care must be taken to keep metal braces clean, and there are some diet guidelines to help avoid breaking the components.
Ceramic
Sometimes called clear braces, ceramic braces are made from materials that are close in color to your natural teeth. This makes the brackets less noticeable in your smile. The wire or elastics used with ceramic braces can also be in a less visible shade resembling your tooth color. One downside to these clear braces is that they are more breakable than metal braces, so care should be taken with them especially when playing contact sports. Also, ceramic braces are typically pricier than traditional metal braces.
Lingual
The most expensive of these three options is lingual braces, which are bonded to the back sides of your teeth instead of the fronts. This makes them invisible to others, although they are often less comfortable because your tongue touches them. Lingual braces can take more getting used to than other types of braces, but they are proven to be effective in transforming smiles.
Contact the orthodontic office of Dr. Fotovat if you are looking for an orthodontist in the Sherman Oaks area.
During orthodontic treatment, you need to take special care of teeth and gums. Extra brushing and additional flossing tools may become part of your routine. At the same time, you need to ensure that nothing happens to your braces. The following tips will help you protect your investment:
Eat right
While you have braces, you should avoid certain foods. Hard candy and sticky substances can crack brackets or break off wires. When you have apples or carrots, cut them in bite size pieces just to be safe.
Wear a mouth guard
For sports activities, you need to protect your face and mouth by having a mouth guard. Normally, dentists and orthodontists recommend custom mouth guards, but during orthodontic treatment you need the store-bought appliances so that your mouth guard won’t damage your braces.
Report problems immediately
Even when you do everything right, you may still have a broken bracket or loose wire. Apply dental wax if you experience discomfort and contact your orthodontist for the next step.
Curtail bad habits
Chewing on ice or biting your nails can harm your teeth and cause problems with your orthodontia.
Don’t make adjustments yourself
If your wires or brackets don’t seem right to you, call the orthodontist. Attempting to correct the issue can create bigger problems.
Visit the dentist for checkups
At these appointments, your dentist can make sure teeth and gums are holding up well during your time in braces. If enamel weakens or you develop gum disease, you could have trouble with your brackets and wires.
Burbank Orthodontist
Most people know a little bit about the world of orthodontics. Everybody has a friend, relative, or acquaintance with braces, and we all know you have to wear a retainer after you get your braces off so your teeth don’t shift back. Take this fun quiz to learn more about the field of orthodontics.
True or False: Occlusion is a term for damage or wear on the back teeth.
Answer: False. Occlusion refers to the way your upper and lower teeth fit together. If the fit is incorrect, often called a bad bite, you may need orthodontic treatment.
True or False: Braces are for patients of all ages.
Answer: True. You are never too old to enjoy the benefits of a straight smile, including better oral health and renewed confidence.
True or False: Patients must wear their retainers for as long as the orthodontist thinks it’s necessary.
Answer: True. Initially, you will probably have to wear your retainer very night, maybe more often, to keep teeth in the proper position. Your orthodontist will monitor your teeth and let you know how many hours a day to wear the appliance.
True or False: Invisalign describes a new science fiction movie.
Answer: False. A series of clear, custom aligners, Invisalign orthodontic treatment works for older teen and adult patients who want straighter teeth without the hassle of metal braces.
True or False: You can’t play a musical instrument if you wear braces.
Answer: False. Although you may have an initial adjustment period, braces won’t stop you from jamming on your saxophone.
If you’re looking for an Orthodontist in Sherman Oaks CA, contact us to schedule a consultation. Dr. Fotovat – Burbank Orthodontist – WebBraces.com
