Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that helps with the proper alignment of teeth and jaws. This will help to improve a person’s smile and overall oral health. It will be done to improve problems such as crooked and over-crowded teeth as well as underbites and overbites.

THE RIGHT TIME FOR BRACES

The right time for braces is typically anywhere between the ages of 8 and 14, as soon as adult teeth are in. Younger patients often have optimal results because they are still growing. But also older patients can experience very good results by orthodontic treatment. This is why more and more adults are also choosing to get braces for correcting and improving their smile.

A dentist will be able to determine what type of braces will need to be worn. Usually small brackets are fixed to the teeth and connected with a metal wire. By tightening this wire and thus applying pressure, the teeth and jaw are gradually shifted.

Each patient will have a different treatment plan when it comes to braces. The more complicated the bite or spacing, the longer the treatment. The average person will wear full braces for a time between 18 to 30 months. A retainer will then be worn for a few months up to a few years to keep the teeth in their place.

With today’s modern orthodontic techniques the treatment is usually very well tolerable. Typically the discomfort is mild and only lasts for a small amount of time.

The patient wearing braces will also have to maintain a balanced diet and avoid some foods. Starchy foods that generate plaque and acid must be eliminated. This includes chips, sweets and soda.

Home care with braces is very important. A soft-bristled brush must be used and flossing in between braces is of utmost importance.