What is Orthodontic Care?
Orthodontia is a type of dentistry that focuses on the teeth and jaw. Primarily they work to realign crooked or uneven teeth, close gaps, and correct abnormal bites.
How Does Orthodontic Care Help Straighten My Teeth?
One of the most common methods employed by an orthodontist to straighten teeth are braces. Braces are commonplace in children and many adults will also get them. Braces can help straighten teeth over a long period of time by gradually influencing the direction of growth or pulling them into desired locations.
What is the Process of Getting Braces Like?
The primary goal of braces is to straighten teeth and provide a nice and even bite. Our dentists will walk you through a diagnosis of your current situation and inform you how long you will be expected to wear them to achieve the desired results.
The steps for braces application are as follows:
- Teeth are thoroughly cleaned and dried
- Bonding glue is then applied to the surface of your teeth
- The brackets are attached to the glue
- The wires are run through the bracket and tightened to achieve the desired tension
What Are the Risks of Braces?
Braces are an extremely safe form of corrective treatment. However, there are times during the course of having braces when complications can arise.
Due to the physical structure of braces, small pockets of spaces are created that can trap food particles. If food is not thoroughly removed and cleaned the possibility for tooth decay, gum disease, and staining increase.
Your teeth may return to their original position or shift out of alignment if the retainer is not used consistently.
What Should I Be Careful of When Wearing Braces?
Many standard dental health tips apply to wearing braces as well. These tips include:
- Reducing sugary and starchy food intake, as they can contribute to decay
- Brushing your teeth carefully, but correctly
- Rinsing your mouth out thoroughly
- Avoiding hard food
- Avoiding sticky food
- Flossing every day
- Listening to your doctor and following maintenance directions
Be sure to get you scheduled checkups with Sunrise Dental and to follow all of your dentist’s instructions carefully.
