The Whole Truth About Braces
A beautiful smile is not just an aesthetic advantage; it’s a lifelong foundation of self-confidence. Giving a child straight teeth from childhood is an invaluable gift. Unfortunately, many people only consider correcting their bite эмоций around the age of 30, although correction is significantly easier and faster during the period of tooth growth.
What is a bite and why can it be incorrect?
In dentistry, a bite refers to how the upper and lower teeth come together. Accordingly, a correct bite means the teeth meet evenly, while an incorrect bite involves various alignment abnormalities.
The study and correction of bite disorders is the field of orthodontics. The main causes of an incorrect bite include:
- Incorrect growth of individual teeth.
- Shifting of teeth due to early loss of adjacent (especially baby) teeth.
- Jaw development abnormalities.
While the first two causes can often be corrected with orthodontic methods, jaw development abnormalities may require complex treatment involving maxillofacial surgeons.
Bite Correction Methods: The Role of Braces
The ideal scenario is the prevention of bite disorders. Therefore, dentists do not recommend premature extraction of baby teeth, instead suggesting special crowns or removable appliances to preserve them and hold space for permanent teeth.
However, if a problem already exists, the most common and effective treatment method is the installation of a brace system. Modern braces are radically different from earlier designs. They are aesthetic, made from high-tech materials, and installed using advanced techniques.
How do braces work?
The principle of how braces work is based on the “shape memory” property of some metals. The archwire of the brace system initially has an ideal configuration. When fixed to misaligned teeth, it strives to return to its original position, gradually moving the teeth into the correct alignment.
Types of Braces
There are two main types of braces:
- External (labial/buccal): Placed on the outer surface of the teeth.
- Internal (lingual): Placed on the inner surface of the teeth, making them virtually invisible to others.
Braces can be made from various materials: metal, ceramic (tooth-colored), sapphire (clear), and even precious metals. The choice of material affects aesthetics and cost, but not the treatment’s effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces:
At what age can braces be fitted?
Treatment is possible from as early as 9-10 years old, but the optimal age is considered to be 12-13 years, when permanent teeth are actively growing. However, braces are also effective in older age, though treatment may take longer.
Rules for wearing braces:
- Avoid very hard and sticky foods that can damage the system.
- More thorough and prolonged oral hygiene.
- An adaptation period (2-3 weeks) during which some discomfort is possible.
Duration of treatment:
On average, active treatment with braces lasts 1.5-2 years, depending on the complexity of the case. After the braces are removed, a retention period follows – the fitting of retainers (a special wire on the inside of the teeth or removable aligners), which prevent the teeth from shifting back. This stage is mandatory to secure the result.
Which braces to choose?
The choice depends on your preferences and financial means, as the therapeutic effect of all modern systems is similar. Metal and ceramic external braces have a good track record. If maximum invisibility is important, lingual braces are the ideal choice.
There are many manufacturers of brace systems. At Molddent Clinic, we use only proven and certified systems, such as Damon, Smart Clip, Incognito, and others, well-known for their effectiveness and quality.
Investing in a beautiful smile is an investment in confidence and health that will always be relevant. Contact Molddent for a consultation, and we will select the optimal orthodontic treatment plan for you!