What types of braces are available?
- Fixed braces (metal and clear options)
- Clear aligners (Clear).
What can braces help with?
Braces can address a variety of issues depending on the dental irregularities, including improving chewing function, enhancing the aesthetics of the face and smile, assisting with speech, and preparing the proper alignment of teeth for future placement of dentures when necessary.
When can braces be started?
Braces can be done during the mixed dentition phase, typically between the ages of 6 to 12 years, until all permanent teeth have erupted.
Abnormalities in the bite of permanent teeth that require braces
1) Crowded teeth: Difficult to clean, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum inflammation.
2) Gaps between teeth: Food particles can easily get stuck in the spaces between teeth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum inflammation.
3) Protruding upper front teeth: This can cause the lower front teeth to bite into the gums on the roof of the upper front teeth, leading to loose upper teeth or gum inflammation.
4) Lower front teeth overlapping upper front teeth: This causes the upper and lower front teeth to collide, which can damage the periodontal tissues. It may lead to gum recession or loose teeth.
5) Open bite in the front: The front teeth cannot properly cut food, and speech may be unclear.
Abnormalities in the bite of primary or mixed dentition that may require braces You should consult an orthodontic specialist, as treatment may be done using various methods, such as:
1. Tooth stripping (reducing the size of the primary canine teeth) to create space for correcting crowded teeth.
2. Jaw expansion in cases where the jaw is narrower than normal.
3. Stimulating jaw growth to encourage proper development of the jaw.
Post-braces care tips
After finishing orthodontic treatment, it is necessary to wear a retainer to maintain the position of your teeth. Initially, it is worn full-time, and the duration of wearing the retainer will gradually decrease according to the orthodontist's recommendations.
The duration of orthodontic treatment is typically 2-3 years. The orthodontist will schedule follow-up appointments with the patient every 3-4 weeks or approximately once a month.
