Are you looking for a professional who can help your child or teen have a straight smile? Have you waited until your adult years to fix your own crooked teeth? Here at Texas Dentistry, we’re happy to help patients of all ages straighten their smiles. While braces are most often associated with teenagers, adults are increasingly seeking treatment with traditional orthodontics. And with the latest advancements in dental technology, today’s braces are more comfortable and effective than ever before. Contact us to learn how you or your child could benefit from our orthodontic treatments!
The first step on your journey towards a straighter smile is a consultation with our team at Texas Dentistry. We’ll perform a thorough oral examination to assess the severity of your orthodontic issues. Our findings will help us determine whether or not you’re eligible for traditional braces. Here are a few problems braces can fix and the impact they have on oral health:
Do you have an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite? These issues can increase your risk of temporomandibular disorders (TMD), teeth grinding, broken teeth, and other problems. Fortunately, traditional braces can shift your teeth and jaw into better alignment and fix your bad bite.
Crowded and crooked teeth are not just an aesthetic issue – they can put your dental health at risk as well. Food particles can collect more easily between them, increasing your risk of tooth decay. They can also contribute to bite alignment problems. Luckily, braces can reposition the teeth into more ideal spaces, allowing them to feel and function their very best.
Oftentimes, a gap between teeth is regarded as a purely cosmetic issue. However, it can also cause problems with biting, chewing, and speaking. Traditional braces are able to gently move the teeth closer together, improving your appearance and oral health. Closing the gaps can protect your gums, improve your ability to eat certain foods, and benefit your pronunciation.
For successful treatment, braces need to be well maintained. Here are some tips for helping your braces stay in good condition:
Ready to improve your smile with traditional braces in Mesquite? At Texas Dentistry, we’re prepared to help you get started on your orthodontic journey. Of course, we understand you may want to get more information about the road ahead of you. For that reason, we’ve decided to answer some frequently asked questions below. Should you not find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to our office for personal assistance.
When you think of metal wires and brackets, you may associate them with childhood and adolescence. However, there’s technically no upper age limit for braces. You can still get them as an adult! The only thing to keep in mind is that your teeth are more firmly embedded in your jaw, meaning repositioning them will take a bit longer than average.
Before moving forward with braces in Mesquite, your jawbone and teeth must be in good condition. If that’s not the case, you’ll have to undergo certain preliminary treatments like fillings, root canal therapy, gum disease treatment, etc.
Once your braces are no longer putting pressure on your teeth, they will try to shift back into their former positions. To prevent that from happening, you’ll have to wear a retainer. There are a few different types you can choose from, including those that are removable and those that are permanently fixed in the mouth. If you opt for a removable one, you should try to wear it for 20-22 hours each day immediately after your braces are removed. You can eventually graduate to wearing it only at night.
On average, it takes about 18-36 months to achieve your desired results with braces in Mesquite. However, every case is unique, which means this treatment time can vary from patient to patient. Some people may only need braces for about 12 months, while others may require them for up to 36 months. It’s worth noting that several factors can influence the amount of time braces must be worn, including the severity of the misalignment, age, and treatment compliance.
They shouldn’t! Modern braces are far more comfortable than those of the past. Since they work by applying pressure to the teeth, you may naturally feel some soreness, especially when you first get them or when the arch wire gets tightened. Some patients may experience minor oral irritation due to the braces’ metal parts. If you experience discomfort, you can get relief by sipping on cold water, taking over-the-counter pain medication, and following dietary guidelines.