Having straight teeth is significant, but not everyone is gifted with properly aligned teeth. Crooked teeth or teeth that are out of place undoubtedly leave a scar on a person’s self-esteem, let alone affecting the way a person chews and talks. Teeth that are crooked or out of place does not necessarily mean that the person has poor oral hygiene, but is likely to be negatively judged by others. This is why it is imperative for dentists to keep a close eye on the development of adult teeth, particularly in children. By keeping a check on the formation and growth of the permanent teeth, it is easy for the dentist to put corrective measures in place at the right time. In the end, it doesn’t matter what the causes are for developing misaligned teeth, it can be corrected and set right by using dental braces and other appliances.
The science of straightening the teeth is referred to as orthodontics and a dentist who corrects it is called as as an orthodontist.
5 Signs You May Need Dental Braces
You should book a consultation with an orthodontist if any of the signs apply to you or your child:
- Crowding - This basically means that there is less space in the mouth for all teeth. Crowding does get worse over time, and hence makes it difficult even to brush and floss.
- Overbite - When there is a horizontal and vertical overlap of the front teeth, overbite occurs. Generally speaking, an overbite is usually conspicuous when the front teeth stick out much farther than the bottom teeth.
- Crossbite - Here the upper tooth is far behind the lower opposing tooth, causing wear and fracture of both teeth, increased gum recession of the affected teeth, when left untreated.
- Underbite - This is an abnormal bite when all the upper front teeth are behind the lower front teeth. It may lead to difficulty in breathing and chewing.
- Openbite - In an openbite the front teeth do not touch, causing speech problems such as lisps.
Since improperly arranged teeth can cause severe health ailments, in addition to affecting the facial appearance, it is pivotal to consult an orthodontist before it gets worse.
Different Types Of Braces
In today’s time, there is access to more kinds of braces than ever before.
- Metal braces - These are the traditional braces that most of us picture while we think about braces. It is, however, vital to note that the modern day metal braces are far more advanced and less painful than in the past. These are attached to the front side of the teeth and are most noticeable type of braces.
- Ceramic braces - These are of the same size and shape as metal braces, but these are tooth coloured that easily blend in the teeth. Ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal braces, but are more expensive.
- Lingual braces - Lingual braces are same as metal braces, except that the brackets and wire are placed on the inside of the teeth.
- Invisalign - Invisalign is a series of 18-30 custom made mouth guard-like plastic aligners, and these aligners are removable and replaceable. These are almost invisible.
- High Speed braces - High speed braces are for those who don’t want to wear braces for the typical one to three years. With high speed braces, you will achieve results in a span of six months. In high speed braces, self-ligating braces are used, which are different from traditional braces. Here, a dentist will use three components to move teeth into its ideal position. The bracket, the archwire, and a tie.
Frequently Asked Questions: Dental Braces
Q1. When is the right time to begin the treatment?
Ideally, the orthodontic treatment should begin between the ages 10 and 14, but it can be done at any age.
Q2. How often should I see my dentist while wearing braces?
In order to have your braces adjusted regularly to ensure that it is working properly, you will have to see your dentist every six to eight weeks.