Dental braces are correctional devices used by orthodontics to align and straighten teeth to improve bite related issues. While getting braces can be scary, advancements in the field of orthodontics have significantly reduced the pain and discomfort most people face through the treatment. Now, there are multiple options with regard to the kind of braces, the material used, the color, etc.
But, before you commit to such a procedure, here are 6 facts you should know before undergoing treatment:
- Ultimate Goal
- No Age Barrier
- Bracket Types
- Cost Implications
- No Fixed Time Duration
- Temporary Discomfort
Wanting straight teeth is probably the main reason as to why people decide to undergo orthodontic treatment. However, what you must remember is that the ultimate goal of correcting your bite is good oral health. This is because your bite affects a number of bodily functions such as your ability to chew, speak, and eat; and an improper bite can not only lead to jaw dysfunctions but can also result in headaches and migraines.
While most of us automatically think of a middle-schooler at the mention of braces, in reality, there is no age restriction when it comes to opting for orthodontic procedures. The procedure will be planned and executed as per each individual’s medical history and desired outcome.
There are a variety of brackets and braces available today. But their application depends on your general oral health, dental history as well as the projected outcome. So, in order to receive maximum benefits from your orthodontic treatment, go with your orthodontist’s recommendation.
The cost of braces is dependent on a number of factors, such as age, location, servicing clinic, dental and medical history as well as the condition of your teeth at the time. Additionally, factors like the type of brackets to be used, the duration of the treatment as well as the number of stages also affect the costs. For instance, braces like Invisalign are going to be more expensive than the traditional braces due to the type of material used, the treatment procedure to be followed as well as the duration of the treatment process.
Even though you may meet someone with the same alignment issues as you, it is not necessary that your treatment duration will be the same. And while the average treatment period is two years, your orthodontist mandated treatment options, as well as your personal oral care habits, can affect the length of the process.
You will have to endure some discomfort and pain during the initial phase of your treatment and especially when your teeth shift to realign appropriately. But, this is only temporary and can be battled through alternative relief options and taking necessary precautions to reduce the pain such as chewing slowly, refraining from hard, crunchy and chewy foods, and regular cleaning.
As you can see, a lot of the factors mentioned above are directly related to your oral health habits and your willingness to maintain good oral health. And, even if you’ve never followed any recommended dental practices in the past, you will have to do so in order to achieve the desired results from your orthodontic procedure and to benefit from post its completion. So, be sure to consult your orthodontist about the various methods you can use to supplement the correctional procedure as well as the do’s and don’ts in order to receive its benefits for a long time to come!
Dr. Brian Thurman has spent his entire life enjoying all the beauty that California has to offer. A Fresno native, he still escapes to the ocean or the mountains whenever his busy schedule allows. Driven by his love for natural beauty, Dr. Thurman enjoys creating beautiful smiles and healthy bites that last a lifetime. He is proud to be the only Ivy League trained Orthodontist in the Fresno/Clovis area.