Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment. When it comes to straightening your teeth and aligning your bite, there is no other option that can accomplish everything that braces can. If you’re considering braces for yourself or your child, you probably have some questions before you make your decision. Here are the top 10 braces questions and answers to help you decide if braces are right for you.
1. How Long Do Braces Take to Straighten Teeth?
Average length of braces treatment ranges anywhere from 1-3 years. Some patients may have braces longer than others depending on your needs. The extent of the orthodontic corrections you need is the biggest factor in how long your treatment may last.
2. How Do You Floss With Braces?
Flossing with braces can be tricky, but it isn’t so hard once you get the hang of it. You can thread the floss under the archwire between each tooth and then slide it between your teeth. You can also use a floss threader that looks like a plastic sewing needle to thread the floss under your archwire more easily.
3. Can Braces Correct an Overbite?
Braces can correct most bite misalignment types, including overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. In rare cases a patient may need jaw surgery in order to achieve proper bite alignment.
4. Are There Clear Braces?
There are two different types of clear braces, ceramic brackets and clear aligners. Clear brackets are made of ceramic rather than metal so that they blend in with the natural color of your teeth. The archwire is still visible and made of metal. Clear aligners are made of plastic and fit over your teeth. They are essentially invisible and also removable.
5. Do Braces Hurt?
When you first get your braces put on you may experience some discomfort. This is because the teeth are being moved out of their usual position in your jaw, which can make your mouth a little sore for a few days to a week. The brackets and wires may also irritate the soft tissues of your mouth until you get used to them. Over the counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help with any discomfort you may feel.
6. Are There Foods You Can’t Eat With Braces?
There are some foods that you should avoid when you have traditional braces, such as gummy and chewy candy, nuts, pretzels, corn chips, pizza crust, bagels and crusty breads, and ice. If you eat these you are increasing your chances of damaging your braces.
7. What is the Best Age to Get Braces?
Every child should have an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. Some children will need early treatment at this age and others may not. The most common age for braces is between 11 and 14.
8. How Do I Know if I Need Braces?
To determine if braces are needed you will need an orthodontic evaluation. After a visual exam and some X-rays, your orthodontist will make a recommendation for treatment.
9. Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces?
Many dental insurance plans cover braces. Your insurance will most likely only cover a portion of the total, but it reduces your overall out of pocket cost.
10. Will I Need to Wear Retainers After Braces?
It is necessary to wear retainers after braces to maintain your results. You may need to wear them all of the time for a month or so, then you can wear them only at night.
Ready for Braces?
If you or your child may be ready for braces, schedule a consultation with Embrace Orthodontics. After a brief evaluation we can make a recommendation for the best course of treatment and answer any additional questions you may have.
