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Metal braces have long been the go-to option for straightening teeth. They are such a common solution that we’re willing to bet you know someone who has worn braces. While many people think that braces are just for kids and teens, the reality is that anyone can experience their benefits. These days, one in four orthodontic patients is an adult, and experts agree that number is growing. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we cater orthodontic solutions to anyone who wants to straighten their smile, regardless of their age.
Understanding the Importance of Metal Braces
Metal braces are dental devices designed to fix crooked teeth, overcrowded teeth, and gaps in your teeth. While many enjoy the cosmetic enhancement that comes with braces, their primary function is to improve oral health. Misaligned teeth can complicate speaking and eating, and may lead to long-term dental issues.
Braces work by applying slow, continuous pressure to guide your teeth into the correct positions. This is accomplished through the metal brackets and wires system. The process forces the surrounding bone and ligaments to adapt to the pressure and adjust how they grow to allow for proper alignment.
Getting and Caring for Braces
The process of getting braces begins with a free consultation. At your initial visit, Dr. Aristodemo will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and determine the best course of action for your desired results. Once you’re ready to begin, we’ll thoroughly clean your teeth before fitting you for your brackets and wires.
Once your braces are in place, you may experience some discomfort for the first few days, but you can mitigate this soreness with over-the-counter medications. We recommend acetaminophen, such as Tylenol®, as this pain reliever does not interrupt the tooth movement process. You should avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or Advil®. These medications block prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that help with healing. As a result, taking NSAIDs can slow the tooth straightening process.
Proper oral hygiene carries extra importance when you have braces. The metal framework can easily trap food particles, making it difficult to clean specific areas and remove plaque. Careful brushing and flossing are crucial, and special tools such as interdental brushes, floss picks, and water flossers can help clean those hard-to-reach places. You’ll also want to avoid especially sticky, crunchy, or chewy foods and snacks that can cause damage to the metalwork. As for gum? The good news is that you can chew sugar-free gum with metal braces, but make sure it has the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
At your follow-up appointments, we’ll assess your progress and make adjustments to keep your treatment on track.
Metal Braces vs. Invisalign
While everyone wants beautiful, straight teeth, deciding between metal braces and clear aligners like Invisalign® can be daunting. Both options aim to improve your smile, yet they come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks. The most significant benefit of Invisalign is in the name. Unlike metal braces, Invisalign offers a discreet way to align your teeth, as the clear aligners are virtually invisible. Additionally, Invisalign may yield quicker results, with treatment durations ranging from 10 to 24 months, compared to the 2 to 3 years often needed with braces.
However, Invisalign isn’t a perfect option for everyone. It demands a high level of discipline. This system requires wearing the aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily and meticulously following the tray sequence. Without proper compliance, the desired results will be delayed. Also, Invisalign may be less effective for significant dental corrections.
Certain complex dental problems will require metal braces over Invisalign. Circumstances that may warrant braces include irregular loss of baby teeth, missing or extra teeth, incorrect jaw positioning, and respiratory or eating issues, among others. The choice of metal braces vs. Invisalign is best determined at your free consultation with Dr. Aristodemo, who can give her expert opinion after examining your specific dental condition.
The Road to Straighter Teeth
If you’re ready to begin the process of straightening your teeth, metal braces are a great option. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, our experienced, caring team is ready to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Call us today to schedule your free consultation and start your journey to a brilliant new smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
While nobody’s ever too old for braces, most orthodontists will tell you the ideal age for braces is around age 9-14. During these years, all permanent teeth have usually emerged, yet the jaws and facial bones remain flexible, adapting well to orthodontic treatments. While braces are effective at any age, treatments in adults might require a slightly longer duration.
While some mild discomfort can be expected when braces are first placed or when they’re adjusted, it will only last a few days. You can take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to mitigate any soreness. Generally, wearing braces is not considered painful.
The final cost of braces varies with each individual case. The main cost factors include the complexity of the dental issues needing correction and the duration of your treatment. The best way to get a personalized cost estimate is to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Aristodemo. She can examine your mouth, take X-rays, and discuss costs. At your visit, we will also review your dental insurance plan and explain the financing options we offer so that your treatment is affordable.