How you smile has a lot to do with the impressions you leave on people, but not all of us are born with the perfect set of teeth, unfortunately. Nevertheless, it is possible to correct a lot of orofacial disorders with the help of braces applied properly by an expert orthodontist. If you have been told to wear braces by your orthodontist or if you are considering it, here are eight things that you should know in advance.
Braces are Not Only for Children
It doesn’t really matter whether you are a child or an adult because braces do not come with an age limit. If you concerned about making public appearances with braces on, ask your orthodontist for back-of-the-teeth, hidden lingual braces.
The 5 Types of Braces
There are primarily five different types of braces: traditional, ceramic, Damon, Invisalign, palatal expanders, and Forsus appliances.
You Will Need to Get Your Teeth Cleaned
Before braces can be applied, the orthodontist will have to make sure that your teeth are squeaky clean and, therefore, a professional cleaning session or two might be necessary.
Cavities will Need to Go First
If you have cavities, broken teeth or other gum or teeth related issues, they will need to be taken care of first. For the braces to come on, the overall condition of your oral health should be decent at least.
On-Time Varies
Generally speaking, people have to wear braces for a period of roughly eighteen months to two whole years, but depending on the particular case, it can vary quite a bit.
Taking Off the Braces
A lot of people, and especially the young patients, ask this question, does getting braces off hurt? There might be some popping and discomforting sensations associated with the removal procedure, but it shouldn’t hurt under normal circumstances.
You May Need a Retainer
Once the braces are off, you will possibly have to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in place. Be prepared that before getting used to your retainer, it could hurt a little. In some cases, you may even have to wear that retainer permanently, so make sure that you discuss that part with your orthodontist.
You Will Have to Watch Your Diet
As long as you have your braces on, certain food items will be off the menu to prevent displacement of the braces or your teeth getting hurt. Examples include popcorn, beef jerky, gum, whole apples, carrots and similar whole fruits and vegetables, corn on the cob, sticky food like candy bars and chocolate bars, ice, and just about anything that’s hard or has a shell to crack. Braces are a way towards a better life in the future, whether you are a child or an adult. There might be a few hiccups on the way, but rest assured that as long as you are in expert hands, the problems, sacrifices, and discomfort are temporary and well worth it. We hope this article has helped you.
