Most common questions about braces

In the majority of cases, patients who come to the dental clinic use braces for two reasons:

• do not have a balanced bite and correct contacts between teeth;
• Many patients have had one or more teeth missing for a long time and the neighboring teeth have moved into the missing space, which makes placing a tooth in that place difficult or with many disadvantages. That space needs to be restored correctly in order for the placement of a dental crown to be done in an ideal manner. Unfortunately, as many patients need orthodontic treatment, as few accept this option. There are a number of myths or preconceived ideas about braces that I need to clarify with patients so that they can make the best choice for themselves and their long-term health.

When braces are recommended, a number of factors are considered:

• orthodontic problem
• age
• general diseases
• local diseases (e.g. periodontal disease)

Frequently asked questions about braces

 

1. How long do braces last?

There is said to be an average of 2 years to wear braces. But this term is very vague. It depends on a number of factors:

• which dental movements need to be performed;
• your doctor's treatment plan;
• the braces chosen together with your orthodontist;
• the thoroughness with which the patient comes to the check-up.

In the first week your mouth, tongue and lips have to get used to the appliance, your chewing has to adjust to the new situation. After some time, you will get used to the appliance which will be part of your life and you will forget you have it.

 

2. How much does it hurt and how unpleasant is it?

When the braces are fitted, the patient does not necessarily feel pain, but rather some pressure on the teeth. Then, at each activation, once every 4-6 weeks, I feel a light pressure on my teeth again for a few minutes.

 

3. Are extractions of healthy teeth necessary?

The orthodontist will answer this question. After analyzing the orthodontic file (photos, x-rays, measurements), he establishes the treatment plan. Basically, it's a simple calculation: there is a bone size and a size of all the teeth. They have to match. If the size of the teeth is larger than the size of the bone, then extractions are recommended.

 

4. Why are braces necessary if your teeth are straight?

Because an orthodontic appliance is not fitted for esthetic purposes, but for medical purposes. With braces the bite is adjusted, the interdental contacts are balanced. As a result, the teeth will be straight.

 

5. Can I still have orthodontic treatment as an adult?

Of course. The difference from childhood is that in adulthood you can't move your bones. But teeth can move regardless of age.

 

6. How is dental hygiene different?

It depends on how your hygiene has been so far. Of course your dental hygiene will be a little more rigorous when wearing braces. The recommendation is that brushing and showering should be used after every meal. In practice, this is rarely possible in the long term. 

In these conditions, a more realistic recommendation is that brushing and showering should be used twice a day, in the morning, before meals and in the evening after the last meal, and interdental brushes can be used if necessary. But these recommendations are for any patient: hygiene twice a day, morning and evening.

 

7. What will your teeth look like at the end of the treatment?

Of course it depends on the initial situation and the whole treatment plan:

• If the patient has all their teeth and it is necessary to align and create a balanced bite, that is what they will achieve.
• If the patient has an edentulous space (previous extraction) for a long time, unprotected, the teeth are moved to create the space needed for a crown.
• If there are teeth with position changes, they will align correctly, in the natural line of the arch.

 

8. Is contentment necessary to be worn throughout life?

The duration and type of retention vary depending on the individual treatment plan. The orthodontist will determine the appropriate retention method, the duration of wear, and the follow-up schedule.
Retainers may be fixed, in the form of a thin metal wire bonded to the lingual surface of the teeth, or removable, such as a clear retainer worn for a specified number of hours per day.

 

9. What are you not allowed to eat when you have braces?

When wearing braces, it is essential to take care of your diet to avoid damage or discomfort. Even if you have to avoid some foods, there are many other delicious and healthy options available!

Recommended:

• Soft fruits: bananas, melon, berries.
• Vegetables boiled or steamed until soft.
• Soft grains, such as oats or oatmeal.
• Dairy products: yogurt, cream cheese or pudding.
• Soft meat or fish.
• Bread without crust or soft toast.
• Pasta, rice and other cooked cereals.

Avoid:

• Crunchy or hard foods: nuts, seeds, popcorn.
• Sticky sweets: toffee, jelly.
• Hard fruits and vegetables not cut into small pieces: apples, carrots.
• Foods you have to bite directly with your front teeth: corn on the cob, whole apples.

Even if there are restrictions, it is important to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet. Choose the right foods and protect your teeth and oral health!