In my previous article, I discussed braces and what tooth problems braces can correct such as crooked or crowded teeth, uneven spacing due to missing teeth, overbites or underbites, incorrect jaw position, and disorders of the jaw joints.
Your dentist can provide a detailed treatment plan for you including diagnosis, examinations, and some orthodontic procedures. During the period of bracing, the interconnecting wires are tightened at each visit, bearing mild pressure on the brackets or bands to shift teeth or jaws gradually into a desired position. Your teeth and jaws may feel slightly sore after each visit, but the discomfort is brief. Keep in mind also that some teeth may need to be extracted to make room for teeth being shifted with braces and for proper jaw alignment.
The length of wearing braces depends upon your treatment plan. The more complicated your spacing or bite problem is, and the older you are, the longer the period of treatment. Most patients can count on wearing full braces between 18 and 30 months, followed by the wearing of a retainer for at least a few months to set and align tissues surrounding straightened teeth.
With braces, oral hygiene is more important than ever. Braces have tiny spaces where food particles and plaque get trapped. Brush carefully after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and check your teeth in the mirror to make sure they’re clean. Take time to floss between braces and under wires with the help of a floss threader.
Meanwhile, you should cut down on sweets, chips and pop. Sugary and starchy foods generate acids and plaque that can cause tooth decay and promote gum disease. Cut healthy, hard foods like carrots or apples into smaller pieces. Sticky, chewy sweets like caramel can cause wire damage and loosen brackets. Avoid hard and crunchy snacks that can break braces, including popcorn, nuts and hard candy. More don’ts include ice cube chewing, thumb sucking, excessive mouth breathing, lip biting and pushing your tongue against your teeth.
For more information, please call Dr. Sun at 661-799-8800, visit the website of www.DrSunDDS.com or go to her dental office at 23450 Lyons Avenue, Suite B in Newhall.