Braces are devices that are used to move teeth or adjust the underlying bone. They are used to straighten crooked teeth, relieve pressure on joints in the mouth and align the upper and lower jaw. Braces are basically used to prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities.
What are the benefits of getting braces?
Feeling comfortable with your appearance is important for social and professional success. Orthodontics has helped many people build their self-confidence by restoring facial balance and the natural beauty of a smile.
How does the procedure work?
Your doctor will begin with a complete medical history and examine your mouth and jaw. He/she may also take photos and give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. Often, plaster molds of the mouth are taken, and your doctor may order several types of x-rays.
The brackets are bonded to the teeth, and the wires run through the brackets from tooth to tooth. Braces are often used to straighten crooked teeth and align the top and bottom rows of teeth. They are made in a variety of materials, including metal and ceramics, and come in a variety of colors.
Most patients experience soreness after the braces are first put in and each time the brackets are adjusted. The teeth and gums may remain tender for three to five days after an adjustment. Minor pain medication can relieve these symptoms.
How long should I wear braces?
The length of orthodontic treatment depends on the growth rate of the patient, the severity of the condition, and how consistently the patient wears the prescribed orthodontic device.
