Dental braces are ideal orthodontic devices that you can use to correct the alignment of your teeth and address other bite-related problems. We use this orthodontic treatment to manage issues such as overbites, crowded teeth, underbites, crooked teeth, or any other malocclusions. There are three common types of braces available in our clinic: Invisalign clear aligners, Damon braces, and traditional braces. We will recommend the best depending on your dental issues and preference when you visit Greeley Orthodontics.How Do Braces Work?
Braces, whether traditional braces, Damon braces, or Invisalign clear aligners, work by putting consistent pressure on your teeth. Over time, your teeth will move into the correct positions. This process of teeth movement is a gradual process that constitutes bone remodeling, where your bone tissue is broken down and new tissue is formed.
How Long Do Braces Take?
The duration it will take for your orthodontic treatment to be complete will vary depending on various factors such as the complexity of your orthodontic problem, the choice of braces, age, and compliance with our instructions. But on average, it can take 18 months up to 3 years for this process to be complete. Here are some of the common factors that will influence the treatment process:
The Severity of Your Orthodontic Issues
For minor crowding of teeth, the process can take up to 18 months, and you will have a well-aligned and beautiful dental formulation. But for complex issues such as severe misalignment or crowding, the process will take longer.
Patient Age
Orthodontic treatment with braces produces faster and more promising results in younger people. This is because their bone is still growing, and it is possible to manipulate the position of the teeth easily. For adults, braces still produce positive results but will take a prolonged time.
Compliance With Our Instructions
Following our instructions is imperative to ensure the treatment process is successful. This can include providing you with regular appointments and maintaining adequate oral hygiene. For Damon braces, you need to ensure you adhere to the prescribed wear schedules.
Types of Braces
Different types of braces will have different treatment durations. Traditional braces are quite effective in solving complex orthodontic issues but may take longer to achieve results. Clear aligners and Damon braces, on the other hand, are newer technologies and will produce quicker results.
How Long Do You Have to Wear Braces?
Braces can take an average of 1 to 3 years for the process to be complete. But you may require a shorter or longer period, depending on your orthodontic situation. For traditional metal braces, it is possible to get positive results after 12-24 months.
Do Braces Hurt?
After the installation of braces, it is common to experience some soreness and discomfort. This level of discomfort will vary from one person to another, but the effects are usually temporary. Remember that braces will work by putting pressure on your teeth and moving them to the desired position. This pressure will cause some level of discomfort or soreness.
For traditional braces, they come with wires and brackets that can come into contact with your tongue, lips, or cheeks, which can cause sore spots or irritation. But with time, redness will decrease as you adapt to the braces. The metal braces require periodic adjustments, which involve tightening the wires. This process will lead to some temporary discomfort.
What Can You Eat With Braces?
After installation of braces, it is crucial to be cautious of the types of foods that you consume. If you eat hard foods such as candies or nuts, you are endangering yourself with a broken wire or bracket. You should also avoid sticky or sugary foods while you are wearing your braces. These foods can stick in your brackets or wires, which will create a harmful environment for bacteria or plaque to grow.
When considering what to eat with your braces, choose foods that have low sugar content and also do not require much chewing. Select foods such as soft carbohydrates, which can include mashed potatoes, bread, or well-cooked grains. You can also consume cooked vegetables, smoothies, or fruits.
What Is the Best Color for Braces?
The color of your braces depends on the type of your skin tone. For individuals with darker skin, bright jewel tones such as violet or navy work better for them. If you have fair skin, you can select cool colors such as sky blue or silver.
Do Braces Change Your Face?
The purpose of braces is to reposition your teeth to the right position. The repositioning process will change the shape of your jawbone, which will manipulate the space between the upper lip and nose. Ideally, your nose will appear more proportion to your face. Any changes to your face after treatment with braces relate to improvement in your dental alignment and bite but not alterations to your facial structures.
How to Whiten Teeth With Braces?
Even with braces, it is possible to whiten your teeth. You can whiten your teeth using whitening toothpaste, which contains abrasive ingredients. A whitening mouthwash will also help to freshen your breath and protect your teeth against stains. When brushing your teeth, an electric toothbrush will help remove bacteria and plaque and ensure your teeth always look white. Lastly, you can choose a professional teeth whitening process, which entails a proper cleaning process and the use of a bleaching agent.
How to Floss With Braces?
With braces, food and bacteria can build up in between your teeth. To floss when you have braces, ensure you use a unique orthodontic floss or floss threader, which will help eliminate all food particles and bacteria. Aim to floss at least once daily or more often, depending on what food you eat.
How to Brush Your Teeth With Braces?
Brushing your teeth with braces is essential to prevent multiple oral issues such as tooth decay or gum disease. Ensure you clean the brackets and wires. The best tactic is to brush every wire and move your toothbrush to the bottom and around the lower and upper teeth. We recommend that you brush your teeth for an average of two minutes and ensure you clean every quadrant of your mouth.
If you are considering straightening your teeth, we can recommend Damon braces, Invisalign clear aligners, or traditional braces. All these types produce good results. Ensure you visit us at Greeley Orthodontics for detailed information or you can call us at 484-346-6008.