Dental Health - Braces

Dental Health - Braces

If your dentist has told you that your teeth are not aligned correctly or your teeth are very crowded probably you need to wear braces. Braces are one of the most common treatments to correct crooked or crowded teeth and help align the jaw (keep it in the correct position). Your dentist will probably tell you to make an appointment with an orthodontist (dentist who specializes in braces) to determine if braces are the right choice for you.What are braces?Braces are bands, wires and clamps (brackets) that hold the teeth in the correct position. The good news is that the braces and orthodontic brackets can be stylized. Today they are available in different colors and some are almost invisible. Movements of your teeth can also be clear removable plastic aligners. Your dentist or orthodontist can help you decide which ones are right for you.How do braces work?Braces work by moving and slowly straighten your teeth so that they have enough space and align correctly. The wires apply pressure to your teeth so that they are moving in the right direction. The elastic bands help align your teeth to make them straighter. Braces usually need to be adjusted once a month.How long will I have to wear braces?Whereas all the teeth are different, it may take a few months or years to correct teeth that are not straight.What should I do when I get my new braces?After you get your new braces, your mouth will be sore for 1-2 days. Chewing hard foods will be painful so you better eat soft foods for 24-48 hours. It is also a good idea to eat soft foods are the days when you have braces adjusted or tightened. Soft foods such as: macaroni and cheese, soup, oatmeal, mashed potatoes.Foods should not be consumed in general, during the time that you have braces:Food hard-nuts or hard candySticky foods - gum or candyHard food or toast bagels, apples and licorice (licorice)Ways to relieve pain in your mouth:Rinse your mouth with warm water and ½ teaspoon of salt and spit it out (do not swallow).Ask your orthodontist if it's okay that you take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for painTalk to your orthodontist about using a special dental "wax" on areas where the braces cause irritation: lips, cheeks, tongue and gums.How often will I have to see my orthodontist?When you visit your orthodontist, he / she will tell you how often you should come back for regular checkups. You need to have regular reviews to examine how they are working braces and adjust or tighten them. Tightening your braces keeps your teeth straight and move in the right direction.Do I need to continue cleaning my teeth with dental floss?Yes! It is extra important for you taking care of your teeth especially when you have braces that food and bacteria can get stuck. Limpiándotelos brushing your teeth with dental floss avoid cavities occur and keep your gums healthy. Your orthodontist or assistant will show you how to brush and clean your teeth with dental floss.What will life after braces?Once you remove the braces, you probably need to use a retainer. A retainer is a "dental appliance" that helps keep your teeth into the correct position and prevents them from moving. Your orthodontist will tell you how long you need to wear your retainer since the time varies depending on the individual.Here are some tips to remember when you are wearing a retainer:Take the retainer out to eat.Use your toothbrush, toothpaste and warm water to wash your retainer once a day. Thus leftovers, bacteria and any odors are eliminated.When you're not wearing your retainer keep it in a box.Do not wrap your retainer in a paper towel or napkin as you may throw it in the trash by mistake.Take the retainer for swimming.Keep your retainer away from hot water and high temperatures - the retainer is made of plastic material that can melt.Use a dental dam over your braces if you play sports.Bring your retainer to every appointment with your orthodontist.How much are braces?Braces can be expensive depending on whether you have or do not have dental insurance. It's a good idea to ask your parent or guardian if you have dental insurance. If you have it, you'll find an orthodontist in your insurance plan. You should also ask your dental insurance provider how much they will pay for braces. Most orthodontists establish a payment plan to help with expenses.