What are braces for?
Braces are orthodontic appliances that are used to straighten teeth and in some cases align your bite. They not only improve the appearance of your teeth, they also improve your dental health.
What is the difference between traditional and ceramic braces?
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces. Over thousands of years, they’ve evolved to become comfortable, efficient, and safe. They are made of stainless steel, and you have the option of personalizing yours by adding different-colored rubber bands!
Ceramic braces are clear, and therefore less visible than traditional braces. Because of their coloring, these braces require more attention to brushing and dental hygiene. Ceramic braces are the perfect alternative to traditional braces for patients who don’t want their treatment to be as noticeable.
Regardless of which option you choose, they’re both equally effective!
How Do Braces Work?
Braces slowly shift your teeth by applying a very light, constant pressure on the roots of your teeth for an extended period of time. This causes the bone around the root to change so that the tooth can move into a new position. This process happens gradually, and results in the jawbone reshaping around the new bite position. After treatment is completed, the braces are removed and a retainer may be created to be worn until the teeth have completely settled.
How is life with braces?
Eating With Braces: When your braces are first applied, you’ll want to stick to soft foods for the first few days. You should avoid foods that are sticky, hard, chewy, or tough.
Caring for Braces: As always, you should be brushing and flossing to keep your teeth and gums healthy! You should still schedule regular dental cleanings while you’re wearing braces.
Slight Discomfort: Once your braces are on, you may experience some discomfort for the first day or two. We recommend that you take an over-the-counter analgesic and/or rinse your mouth with a salt-water solution to relieve soreness. If you feel your braces rubbing your mouth, we’ll provide you with dental wax to cover the areas.
