Braces are used to correct the appearance of uneven teeth or incorrect jaw position. If you decide to use braces, first find out the type, installation process, and risks.
The installation of braces is ideally done when a child with dental problems is 12–13 years old. At this age, the mouth and jaw are still in a period of growth, so it is easier to fix their position.
However, braces can also be installed in adults although their effects are limited and require longer treatment time. In general, braces are used to correct the following conditions:
1. The distance between the teeth is too wide
2. Teeth that are crowded or piled up
3. The front teeth of the upper jaw grow more forward or backward
4. Problems with the jaw, such as inaccurate jaw position
Types of Braces As Needed
Braces are generally performed by an orthodontist, a dentist who has undergone special training to diagnose, prevent, and treat uneven teeth and jaws. This specialist dentist will determine the right type of braces to use, according to the condition you are experiencing. According To Orthodontic Experts Know Types Of Orthodontic Treatment | Which Braces Are Right For You?
Here are some common types of braces:
1. Permanent braces
Permanent braces consist of boxes that are attached to each tooth and connected to each other by wire. Wire is used to correct the location of several teeth at once and prevent problems due to uneven teeth in the future.
Permanent braces are generally easy to see because they are made of metal. However, many wires are now offered made of ceramic or transparent plastic to look more vague, but at a more expensive price.
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2. Loose-fitting braces
The loose-fitting braces are shaped like plastic cross-sections that are positioned on several teeth and cover the palate of the mouth. This type of braces is usually used to correct minor problems, such as crooked teeth.
Loose-fitting braces are usually removed when performing certain activities, when cleaning your mouth, or when brushing your teeth.
3. Functional braces
Functional braces are a pair of detachable plastic wires that are combined and placed on the upper and lower teeth. This type of braces can be used to deal with the problem of positioning the upper and lower jaws that are not aligned with the upper or lower teeth.
Functional braces should be used at all times to provide maximum benefit, and should only be removed when eating or when cleaning.
4. Headgear
Headgear is a hook that is connected from braces and placed on the head to pull the position of the front teeth. Users of this type of braces are generally unable to eat or drink while wearing them, so they are often only used while sleeping.
5. Retainer
Retainers are usually used towards the end of the orthodontic treatment period. Retainers work to stabilize the new position of teeth, gums, and bones, including preventing their position from returning to normal.
This tool can be permanent or detachable. After you stop using the retainer, the position of the teeth will likely change over time naturally.
6. Lingual braces
Lingual braces are similar to permanent braces, only the boxes are attached to the back of the teeth. This type of braces are almost invisible and work as fast as permanent braces, but are more expensive.
7. Clear aligner
A clear aligner is intended for someone with stopped tooth and gum growth. Clear aligners are used as dental protectors and can be removed when you eat or brush your teeth.
Although it requires a greater cost, this product is widely chosen because it is considered more practical and does not interfere with the appearance.
Braces Installation Steps
Consultation with an orthodontist is the first step in determining if braces are needed. Furthermore, the installation of braces is done in several steps, namely:
1. Orthodontists ask questions about your health.
2. You will undergo an examination of your teeth, jaw, and mouth.
3. Additional examinations will also be performed, such as X -rays, to see the position of the jaw and teeth.
4. You will be instructed to bite the jaw-shaped and tooth-shaped mold material to determine what type of treatment is appropriate.
5. In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary to correct the position of the teeth and make room for the surrounding teeth to grow properly.
6. Braces installation.
Once the braces are attached, you should check with your dentist at least once a month to make sure the braces are properly attached. You should also see a doctor immediately if you feel sick or very uncomfortable after wearing braces.
The time it takes to use braces varies with each person, depending on the severity of the problem, your dental health condition, and your compliance.
The average braces were used for 1–3 years and continued with the use of retainers at any time for 6 months. If dental problems have been addressed, you are advised to keep using the retainer only during sleep.
Some Risks of Braces
Here are some of the risks of braces that you need to be aware of:
1. Pain or soreness
After the installation of braces, teeth and jaws will feel sore and aching for at least a week. This is caused by a shift in the position of the teeth. Pain can also appear after braces are tightened during routine visits.
To relieve the pain, doctors may prescribe painkillers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. In addition, you are also advised to consume soft foods for a while.
2. Leftover food is tucked in between the braces
Braces can trap food waste, triggering the buildup of plaque and bacteria. This can lead to cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and loss of minerals in the outer layer of the teeth.
3. The roots of the teeth shorten
Shortening of the tooth root occurs when the tooth moves in a certain direction due to wire pressure. Shortened tooth roots can make teeth unstable or less stable.
4. The arrangement of the teeth is back to normal
Not following orthodontic instructions after the braces have been removed, especially when using a retainer, can cause the tooth arrangement to return to its original position.
Make sure you consult your dentist before installing braces. Once the braces are installed, don’t forget to clean them regularly with a soft-bristle toothbrush and floss, avoid eating sweet, sticky, and hard foods, and regularly check your teeth at the dentist.