Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires, along with elastics. The orthodontist will attach the brackets to the teeth with dental cement and run the wire through them. The elastics hold the wires in place. Together, these components put constant but gentle pressure on the teeth. This forces the teeth to move into the proper positions in the mouth. The treatment length is usually 18 to 24 months, though this will depend on the severity of the patient’s alignment issues.
The orthodontist will first take X-rays and make impressions of the teeth. From here, the orthodontist will make a treatment plan. The appointment to get the braces takes about 90 minutes. The patient returns to the office every few weeks for follow-up visits. Here, the orthodontist will adjust the braces and review the progress of the treatment.
Some foods and braces do not mix well. The patient should avoid biting into hard foods such as hard candy, ice, and popcorn kernels. The person should also be cautious about eating chewy and sticky foods such as bagels, gum, and taffy. These items can damage the brackets and wires. There may even be instances where the brackets come off the teeth. The patient should also minimize the amount of sugar they eat.
Braces do an effective job of straightening teeth. But this treatment can make it more difficult to brush and floss well. As a result, some patients get frustrated and neglect these vital habits. Diligently flossing by using a floss hook to get in between the wires will keep the braces and teeth clean. When brushing, the patient should make sure to hit every part of every tooth.
Inevitably, food will get trapped in the brackets and wires. If the patient does not remove these particles, it can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. The braces can also start to deteriorate. Rinsing throughout the day can help. This is especially important after meals and before bedtime.
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You want your braces to straighten your teeth. But it is also important to make sure they are clean and in good condition. As you do this, you can have peace of mind that the treatment will go well and not drag on. Follow these tips so you can get the most out of this orthodontic care.
Request an appointment or call Paramount Dental Care & Specialty at 562-450-1261 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.
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