BRACES

Posted on by

Even the most dedicated cleaning will not help teeth that are crooked or jaws that are misaligned. Orthodontic treatment looks after problems with poorly positioned teeth and jaws, often just for the sake of appearance, though eating, speaking and sometime breathing can benefit from appropriate orthodontic treatment.

Braces more teeth over time through constant pressure. Teeth must be moved gradually lest damage occurs, though this is almost unheard of today. It is not unusual for braces to be worn for two or more years, with most of the discomfit occurring in the initial stages of application. Retainers many be used to keep teeth in place once the braces have done their work.

Though teeth position and jaw issues are usually undertaken for aesthetic reasons there are sometime other health issues. Poorly spaced teeth can sometimes be more difficult to clean; speech can occasionally be affected and even correct breathing can sometime be an issue. On some occasions sleeping, snoring and breathing problems can be rectified with appropriate orthodontic work. Orthodontic work undertaken for health reasons will also improve appearance; functionality and appearance tend to be closely linked.

MODERN ALTERNATIVES

Popular culture often depicts braces as unsightly, intrusive and very painful. While there was some truth to this a generation ago these issues have now been significantly reduced. Braces do tend to be painful at first, when the teeth first start to move; they will also be painful for a day of so after being adjusted. However, this is a temporary problem, and the long term results are well worth the effort. The appearance of braces has also improved; they are less obvious than what was possible with technology from a generation ago. There are several options today including:

  • Invisalign: these are almost undetectable braces, yet offer effective teeth realignment.
  • Clear invisible ceramic braces: Braces that almost blend in with the colour of your teeth. Clear ceramic braces are effective and far less obvious that older style braces
  • Damon braces: similar in principle to older metal style braces Damon braces use smaller fixtures, making them less intrusive and easier to clean.
  • Clear Damon braces: Slightly more expensive but giving the benefits of less intrusive Damon braces with the nearly unnoticeable appearance of clear braces.
  • Lingual braces are connected to the back of the teeth. These are not visible to observers, but are otherwise similar to traditional metal braces.
  • Gold or titanium braces are used when a patient has an allergy to nickel.
  • Traditional metal braces are still used on many patients as they provide effective treatment in less time than some of the other options.

    • WHEN TO GET BRACES

    Braces will not be fitted till an individual’s mouth has sufficiently developed. Sufficient development of the mouth will usually be reached somewhere during the teen years. Undertaking orthodontic work as a teenager allows the adult individual the benefits of well-placed teeth for the rest of their life. Nonetheless it is quite possible to have braces and other orthodontic work at a later age. About 20% of all orthodontic patients are already adults.

    OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

    Individuals playing contact sports should ask their dentists about mouthguards. Individuals who play woodwind or brass instruments should ask about covers for braces.

    Please contact North Rocks dentist for any enquires about Braces and orthodontic work. We service the North Rocks and Carlingford areas.