6 Things to Know About Braces



No matter how old you are, having a crooked smile due to misaligned or unusually placed teeth can damage self-esteem and potentially cause other dental problems too. A children’s dentist in Wilkes Barre, PA or in your particular locale will keep a close eye when adult teeth are developing to ensure that they’re healthy – if they’re crooked, taking corrective measures during childhood is ideal as the mouth is still growing. Tissues are more flexible now than they will be as an adult, which means it’s must better if they’re fixed before the onset of adolescence. According to sharecare.com, most people get braces between the ages of 9 and 14.

Of course, due to financial or other reasons, there are many adults whose smiles could be helped by braces too. Whether your child needs braces or you’re thinking about getting them as an adult, there are a few things you should know.

Free Consultations

It’s important to find a good orthodontist if you plan to get braces for yourself or your child. Take some time to research the best candidates by asking for references from friends, family, neighbors and co-workers. Most are willing to do a free consultation which can help you find the orthodontist you’re most comfortable with. 

Braces Do More Than Just Straighten Teeth

While you probably know that braces are designed to improve crowded or crooked teeth, underbites and overbites, they can actually do a lot more. They can help correct disorders of the jaw and jaw positioning in addition to helping prevent issues with speech and eating as well as reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. 

Your Mouth May Be Sore Temporarily, But Shouldn’t Hurt

While getting braces on can cause a bit of soreness, they shouldn’t hurt. If you experience pain, it’s an indication that something isn’t right which means you need to see your orthodontist to have them adjusted. 

You May Not Be Able to Get Invisible Braces

You’ve probably seen the ads for “invisible” braces, but keep in mind that they’re not suitable for everyone. They’re designed to blend in with the teeth but they’re only compatible for a relatively small percentage of patients. If they aren’t for you, just remember that your end results are going to be a more beautiful smile with straighter teeth and a healthier mouth too.

Listen to Your Orthodontist’s Advice

Always follow your orthodontist’s advice, including when it comes to foods that shouldn’t be eaten. For example, if you eat chewy, sticky foods and have spacers, it can push them out of place, resulting in more trips back to the office, and higher expenses too. Following instructions is the best way to prevent discomfort, shorten the length of your treatment and decrease overall costs.

Brushing Regularly is More Important Than Ever with Braces

While brushing regularly is always important, as you have brackets and wires that act as obstacles on your teeth, it’s more important than ever now. When you eat, food can get stuck hidden inside, staying for days if you don’t brush properly. That will give acids and sugars in food more opportunities to break down and potentially form cavities.

2 comments

  1. This is such an informative post, thanks for sharing! I remember having braces from 16-18 and it was definitely an experience! I am so glad that I was able to do it though.

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  2. Thanks so much. They are thinking my Granddaughter may need braces. The dentist said she was too young right now, she's 10 years old. I will pass this on to my Daughter so she can get some ideas of what the think about. Perfect timing for this post.

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