Are Traditional Braces Still Effective to This Date?

Misaligned teeth can be caused by genetics; some people are born with crooked teeth or have a family history of tooth misalignment. When you have misaligned or overcrowded teeth, it increases your risk of decay or cavities. Overcrowding can make it hard to clean the teeth properly, predisposing your teeth to decay. Misaligned teeth can also cause problems with the jaw, like TMJ.

Correcting your teeth position is crucial to your oral health, and you may need to visit an orthodontist to have your teeth examined. Several orthodontic treatments are available, from Invisalign to ceramic braces. Many today prefer invisible and subtle orthodontic treatments like clear aligners. But, traditional braces in Lancaster, SC, have not lost their effectiveness. There are times when an orthodontist will recommend a metal brace to reposition your teeth.

What are Traditional Braces?

Traditional braces are orthodontic appliances used to move teeth to improve alignment.

These braces are made up of brackets attached to the front of the tooth. The brackets have a wire wrapped around them, and the other end is attached to an archwire that runs behind the top and bottom teeth.

The braces work by applying pressure to the teeth, which causes them to shift gradually into their desired position.

At What Age Should You Get Braces?

Braces work at any age, but it is recommended that the best time is after the permanent teeth come out. Adolescents tend to take a shorter time because their jaw is still developing, making it easy for the teeth to move.

Are Traditional Braces Still Effective?

Yes, traditional braces are still effective and used today. There are several reasons, Dr. Lindsey Koerich, and they include:

• • They are used in complex malocclusion

Unlike the invisible aligners used for aesthetic purposes, traditional braces work efficiently in fixing complex issues. These braces work by applying pressure on the teeth to move them into a more desirable position. The pressure is applied by a metal archwire that loops around brackets bonded to the teeth.

We have a membrane underneath the gums that surrounds the bone teeth. The pressure from the braces breakdown the membrane, making it easy for the teeth to reposition.

• • Anyone can use traditional braces.

Another reason an orthodontist can recommend braces is that they are ideal for anyone. Invisalign and clear aligners are designed for adults because of the high discipline and hygiene required during the treatment.

Because the traditional braces are fixed, they can be used on anyone, including children.

What Can You Expect During Your Brace Treatment?

The process of getting dental braces at Lancaster pediatric dentistry takes around one to two hours; however, this varies on the type of brace that you choose. The dentist will examine your teeth and do an x-ray to check the condition of the gums and jawbone. She will then use the information to prescribe a brace immediately.

The dentist will prepare the teeth before fixing the braces if your teeth are close to each other. The orthodontist will place bands or spaces between the teeth for a week before fixing the braces to create space.

The dentist will clean the teeth, attach the brackets, place the bands, and attach the archwires on the teeth.

Do the Braces Hurt?

During the installation process, you should not feel any pain. But after the initial placement and adjustments, they can be a little uncomfortable. You may experience soreness and dull throbbing feeling. The discomfort clears with time, but you can use pain relievers to ease the pain. If your child experiences swelling and gum bleeding following the brace placement, visit an emergency pediatric dentist near you for assistance.

How Often Do The Braces Need Adjustment?

Every tooth is different, so it’s hard to know how often you need your brackets adjusted. Orthodontists generally recommend 4-6 week checkups, but that varies depending on the severity of a patient’s case.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Kids First Dental for more information about dental braces and what you can expect.