Truths about Braces

Discover The Insider Truths About Braces

Modern braces are compact, minimalist, and even invisible. Dental procedures have evolved to offer safer, faster, and better results, compared to just a few years ago. Braces no longer interfere with your daily life and a patient can expect to see results in just a few months. 

Despite all the advancements, there are multiple misconceptions about this procedure. You might have your doubts and have anxiety about getting braces. Therefore, we have compiled a list of 5 honest truths about braces you should be aware of before deciding to wear them.   

Braces aren’t just for Children

  • There is a common belief that braces are only for children. This is not true at all. Regardless of your age, if you have healthy gums and teeth you can wear braces. 

Modern orthodontist practices, availability of dental plans, and government insurance schemes have prompted many adults to get braces. 

Braces can be costly

  • One of the biggest truths about braces is that they need to be periodically maintained by the orthodontist. Usually, a fortnightly consultation is scheduled to adjust pressure, change the wire, and review the effects of treatment. All this translates into a hefty bill.  Needless to say, braces can be costly.

If you want to save yourself from these costs, it is recommended to get a dental plan. Usually, most employers now provide dental insurance. You can also contact the government department to check your eligibility for any medical insurance programs. 

You Need to Change your Diet

  • It is going to take some time to get used to the braces on your teeth. Most patients reported that braces-induced inflammation and aches lasted only for a week. Beyond that, they did not feel anything unusual.

Orthodontists generally recommend some changes in the patient’s diet. This is done to prevent damage to the braces. Also, since the braces are in a locked position, extra pressure is exerted on the teeth. If the patient does not exercise caution, the aches will return. 

Orthodontists advise patients to avoid the following types of foods: 

  • Crunchy foods like nuts, chips, and candy
  • Sticky like toffee, gum, or caramel
  • Chewy foods like jelly candy
  • Foods that are usually bitten into such as apple, pear, and guava, etc. 

Avoiding the above list of foods will help prevent any additional pressure on the teeth. Another recommendation given by orthodontists is to slice up the food into bite-sized chunks. This will help you to chew less and therefore, cause less aching. 

Braces Need Cleaning

  • When you are eating, bits of food may get stuck in your braces. If the food stays there, it will cause an infection and bad odor. Therefore, it is very important that you regularly clean your braces after every meal. You can opt for a soft bristle’s toothbrush or floss for this purpose.

It is also recommended to use a safe antibacterial mouthwash so that your braces are free from any infection-causing germs. 

You Will Be Required to Wear a Retainer

  • After the orthodontist has removed your braces, he will provide you with a retainer. It is custom-designed for each patient according to their mouth’s structure and teeth placement. It helps prevent your teeth from moving back to their original positions. If you don’t wear the retainer, you risk reversing the change caused by braces.  

To conclude, getting braces is a costly procedure. Therefore, it is in your best interest to get it done by a certified and professional orthodontist. We have a team of top orthodontics at Icon Dental Center, and we offer orthodontics services in Everett and Seattle.

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