What You Need to Know About Getting Braces

There are more than 4 million people wearing braces in the United States at any one time, of which 25% are adults.

If you are unhappy with the aesthetics of your smile, braces are a wonderful option to straighten and align your teeth. Braces can also help to alleviate speech impediments, prevent bone erosion, aid digestion, fix bite issues, and improve overall oral health.

If you are planning on getting braces, there are several things you should know beforehand. In this blog post, we will highlight the key factors that you should consider, so read on to learn more.

There Are Different Types of Braces

Today, there are two different types of braces that you can choose from. These include the following:

Each of these options has its benefits, and your dentist will be able to recommend the most suitable option based on your oral health needs.

Treatment Times Depend on a Number of Factors

How long does it take to get braces? Well, the answer is that it depends.

The average treatment time for braces is between 1 and 3 years, though this can also be less. The exact timeframe depends on the specific case. Some factors which determine treatment time include:

How crooked your teeth are
The type of braces you choose
Your age
Your dental health and hygiene

Ignoring your oral health during your treatment or not complying with our doctors instructions may result in an increased timeline.

You May Have to Restrict Your Diet

Depending on the type of braces you choose, you may be limited in the foods you are able to consume. Certain foods that are best avoided include popcorn, nuts, crunchy vegetables, corn on the cob, and hard candies. If you opt for removable clear braces, you will be less restricted in your diet.

Always avoid chewing on pens or pencils and refrain from nail biting when wearing braces, as these can damage the brackets, arch-wire, and other components.

Oral Health Is Essential While Wearing Braces

Maintaining good oral health is always important, especially so when you are wearing braces. To ensure that your treatment is as efficient and effective as possible, you should pay close attention to your oral care. This includes doing the following:

Brush your teeth twice a day
Floss at least once a day
Rinse your teeth with water or mouthwash daily
Follow your orthodontics recommendations

If you notice any issues with your braces during treatment, speak to your orthodontist as soon as possible.