Braces/Teeth Alignment

Braces/Teeth alignment

Why should I have my teeth aligned?

The main goal of having braces is to improve dental health and function. Several reasons necessitate one to have braces fixed by a dentist. When you have overcrowding and crooked teeth, which are difficult to brush and floss, braces can be used to move these types of teeth into proper positions. Braces can also be used to correct severe bite problems that would hamper eating and also lead to a higher risk of gum diseases and tooth loss. Bite problems occur when the upper and lower jaw don’t come together properly. If your bite problem is not corrected, your teeth can wear down, making it difficult to chew and subsequently pile pressure on the jaw bone, leading to jaw pain.

Causes of crooked teeth:

Naturally, most people do not have the correct bite and straight teeth due to hereditary and environmental factors. Crowding of teeth, too much space in between the teeth as well as upper teeth that don’t match the lower teeth are usually inherited. Other habits such as tongue thrusting and thumb-sucking can also cause crooked teeth. Crooked teeth can also result from jaw-jolting accidents. Tongue thrusting is the abnormal tendency to push the tongue onto the back of the front teeth during swallowing, causing the front teeth to protrude over some time.  Thumb sucking is a common habit of young children. Children who suck their thumbs through to a later age of about seven years when the upper front teeth start to erupt can affect both teeth and the shape of the jaw bone.

What is the process of having braces fixed?

Once you visit our dental office intending to have braces, a clinical examination will be conducted using an OPG radiograph. This will enable the dentist to determine what you intend to achieve by having the braces on after a careful study of your radiograph. You will be required to deposit at least 50% of the treatment cost. The dentist will then embark on the procedure. The braces consist of an archwire attached to tiny brackets that are made of metal or ceramic. The brackets are bonded with a glue-type agent to the front of the teeth. Some of the bonding agents continuously release fluoride to protect the enamel of the teeth underneath the brackets. The archwire requires periodic adjustment or replacement by the orthodontist to continuously apply pressure to achieve desired results. Braces come in different colors and fashions. You can opt for clear or tooth-colored or even gold braces brackets depending on your wish.

Is the process of fixing braces painful?

After having your braces fixed, you will feel unusual pressure on your jaws, also you may experience sensitivity after a day or two after the process and even after the adjustments.

How long does it take to achieve the perfect alignment after braces?

Teeth alignment is a gradual process and it takes an average of between 20 and 24 months to achieve a perfect alignment. However, after removing braces, you may have to wear retainers for a while to keep your teeth straight and prevent them from shifting back to their original position. Retainers play a big role in holding your teeth in their corrected positions until the bones grow around the teeth to stabilize them. You might also be required to wear the retainers periodically since the teeth will always tend to shift as you grow older. Retainers also come in different colors and designs

Moving the teeth too fast can result in permanent loosening of your teeth and eventual teeth loss. This is why you are advised to look for a qualified dentist to have your braces done.

How do I take care of braces?

Braces are a serious treatment commitment and will therefore require more frequent brushing, flossing, and general care to maintain your oral health hygiene. If you don’t maintain your oral health hygiene, you might experience periodontal diseases and dental caries. You should also avoid hard, sticky food items that may eventually lead to cavities.