These days, it seems like getting braces is a rite of passage for most teens -and increasingly, adults too. If you’re considering getting braces for either yourself of your child, I’m sure you have a lot of questions.
Understanding the process can make the journey smoother and more manageable. As a dentist who’s helped countless patients through this process, I’m excited to share some insider tips on everything you need to know before getting braces.
Why Get Braces?
It goes without saying that braces can help perfect your smile and increase your self-confidence tremendously. But did you know that having straight, properly aligned teeth actually significantly impacts your oral health?
Beyond aesthetics, braces play a crucial role in correcting common dental issues like misaligned teeth, overbites, underbites, and spacing problems. These concerns, if left untreated, can lead to difficulty chewing and speaking, jaw pain, and tooth wear. And because it’s near impossible to effectively clean between uneven teeth, plaque and tartar often build-up despite the best efforts at oral hygiene. This, unfortunately, can result in both cavities and gum disease. Investing in braces greatly reduces your risk of encountering these problems down the line.
Types of Braces
Most people are familiar with metal braces and clear aligners, but there are actually several different types of braces to choose from.
Each type offers unique advantages:
- Traditional Metal Braces: The most common type, these use stainless steel brackets and wires to move teeth into alignment. They are durable, highly effective, and affordable.
- Ceramic Braces: Similar to metal braces but made of tooth-colored or clear materials, making them less noticeable. They are slightly more expensive but offer a more discreet option.
- Lingual Braces: These braces are attached to the back of the teeth, making them virtually invisible from the front. However, they can be more challenging to clean and adjust, and often take longer to work than traditionally placed braces. They can also be uncomfortable initially.
- Invisalign: These are a series of clear, removable trays that gradually shift teeth. They are often preferred by patients for their aesthetics and comfort and are ideal for for mild to moderate alignment issues. Clear aligners are, unfortunately, often not suitable for complex cases.
It’s important to note that the cost of each option is highly dependent on your specific alignment concerns, as well as the length of the treatment necessary to produce satisfactory results. Since this is the case, I’ll refrain from giving specific price estimates as these could be wildly inaccurate. But, I would expect to spend anywhere between $3,000 to $9,000.
While there are pros and cons to each variation of braces, you will need to work with your dentist or orthodontist to decide the specific type of braces that will best address your situation and concerns.
The Fitting Process
Consultation: Your journey begins with a consultation where your dentist will take X-rays, photos, 3D scans, and impressions of your teeth. This will allow a tailored treatment plan and timeline to be created where you and your dentist will discuss the best options for you.
Fitting Traditional Braces: During the fitting appointment, if you are getting traditional braces, brackets are bonded to your teeth and connected with wire. Small elastic bands, known as ligatures or o-rings, are then used to secure the wire to the brackets. These bands come in various colors, so you can choose your favorites if you want to add a bit of personality to your braces. This process usually takes 1 hour and may cause some initial discomfort during or after the appointment as your teeth get used to them, but this is normal.
Fitting Invisalign: The fitting appointment for Invisalign is typically very straightforward and comfortable. Your dentist will try in your initial set of custom aligners that were made using the 3D scan that was done at your consultation. You will also learn how to care for your aligners and how to change your aligners every 1-2 weeks, depending on your treatment plan.
Adjusting to Braces
With any type of braces, the first few days can be challenging as your mouth adjusts, but you’ll get used to them in no time. Expect some soreness and discomfort, which is a normal sign that the braces are working as the teeth begin to slowly shift.
Stick to soft foods like soups, yogurt, and mashed potatoes to ease the initial discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen (Tylenol), can help too. Also, don’t forget to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing meticulously around the brackets to prevent plaque buildup.
Before you know it, braces will become just another part of your daily routine.
Maintenance and Care
Care: Brushing and flossing with braces requires extra effort. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and an interdental brush (like this one) to clean around the brackets. Additionally, avoid sticky, hard, and chewy foods that can damage your braces. Opt for softer foods and cut crunchy items into smaller pieces.
Adjustment Appointments: Regular visits (usually every 4-8 weeks) are necessary for adjustments, where the wires are tightened to continue shifting the teeth, or for you to be given your next set of clear aligner trays. These appointments also allow us to ensure your treatment is progressing as planned.
Duration of Treatment
The duration of treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case. On average, most people wear braces for 18 months to 2 years. Your dentist will provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific needs.
Aftercare and Retainers
Once your braces are removed, wearing a retainer is crucial to keep your teeth in their new positions and for maintaining the beautiful smile you’ve worked so hard to achieve.
Once your braces are removed, your teeth can still shift as they settle into their new positions. A retainer helps keep them in place, preventing any unwanted movement. Additionally, the bones and gums need time to adjust to the new alignment, and a retainer provides the necessary support during this transition.
Retainers are typically worn full-time initially and then only at night. It’s a small commitment that preserves the time, effort, and investment you’ve put into straightening your teeth.
Final thoughts
Getting braces is an investment that requires time, patience, and effort, but the results are well worth it. Understanding the process and being prepared for the changes can make your experience more manageable and successful.
If you’re considering braces, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist to discuss your options. Remember, having straight teeth is not just about aesthetics; it’s about overall health.
Ready to embrace the journey to a great smile? Your future self will thank you!
Have you had braces? What tips or experiences would you like to share? Your insights could help others who are navigating their own orthodontic journey!
~Dr. Lee