We understand you have many questions before deciding to start with your straight teeth journey so we answered these commonly asked questions for you.
FAQ - Before Wearing Braces
Braces give patients a lot of benefits and advantages aside from a better looking smile. Braces correct and prevent dental problems like tooth decay, overlapping and crooked teeth which may lead to serious gum problems, bad mouth odor and irritations because the teeth can’t be cleaned properly. Having straight teeth can also help correcting the bite pattern and misalignment of the bite which saves the teeth, jaw joints and gums from stress. Yes, it may expensive but it will definitely save your smile and health.
There are many types of braces namely; Metal fixed braces, tooth coloured fixed braces, Invisalign/Clear Aligners and Lingual braces. However, this is just to give you an idea and a quick run through. It is still best to consult one of our dentists for a free consultation to learn which option you are suitable for. They know what will be best to treat your teeth after the consultation.
Metal braces are the most commonly used type of braces but also the most noticeable ones. they are among the least expensive types and will allow you to express yourself ascolors of the bands can be changed.
Tooth coloured braces come in the same shape and size as the metal ones but they are much more discreet. They are less noticeable but often more expensive.
Lingual braces are invisible from outside, they are hidden at the back of your teeth . They are also made out of metal like the metal braces. It can be more difficult to clean your teeth while wearing them.
Invisalign braces are the clear plastic mouth – guard – like type. They are removable and barely noticeable but will not work on serious cases.
Treatment lengths may range from 3 to 36 months. It will depend on the complexity of the case and the patient’s cooperation as well as the position of the teeth. Having a good oral hygiene and attending all scheduled follow up consultations will help us keep the treatment on schedule.
You may feel general soreness in the mouth area for a few days after the fitting and this is just normal as something new is introduced in your mouth and your mouth needs to get used to it. The tenderness will last 2-3 days and the teeth will surely adjust after. You will be required to eat soft foods as part of your diet. Hard, chewy and crunchy foods are a no-no for new Braces as it will cause pain and may cause Braces to come off. As long as you are following all the Dentist’s instructions there’s actually nothing to worry about.
The pathways of training for a specialist orthodontist and a general dentist with interest in Orthodontics are different. The training that general dentists have is different as well and some may have more training and experience than others. Always check your dentist’s CV and portfolio of cases to see their experience.
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Yes, you do not need to have braces and can opt for less noticeable and removable appliances such as invisalign or inman aligners. Some adults choose veneers instead of braces but it is not a permanent solution. Feel free to discuss this with one of our dentists during your consultation there might be a different solution for you.
Yes of course! Braces are not just for teenagers, when it comes to achieving straight teeth age doesn’t matter but the earlier the better. Most patients who never received Orthodontic treatments are more prone to mouth disorders.
Yes it is, most children have comprehensive orthodontics done which means they have to wear the braces for about two years; they often need extractions and all the teeth are treated, even the ones at the back. Adults are more often treated with cosmetic orthodontics which means only the front teeth are treated and they almost never need to have teeth taken out. This type of treatment is also much quicker than the traditional one.
It’s best to get your children braces when they age between 12 to 15 years old as they are still growing, or better to wait until their permanent teeth comes out. Delaying treatment will make it harder correcting them but early treatment will help permanent teeth grow properly and may decrease the need for long treatment in the future. If you haven’t had the chance to have this type of treatment done as a child or teenager you can opt for adult braces and those are recommended for anyone above 16 year old.
It is important to ask all the questions you might have to your dentist or orthodontist during the initial consultation; such as: How long will the treatment take for you? Which option does he think is best? What is the most cost effective option for you? Then ask about the treatment plan, schedule, cost and what is included in the package.
It’s as simple as putting braces on teeth. Any additional steps will be carried out depending on the severity of your teeth. You will probably need teeth cleaning appointments. After fitting the braces the dentist will explain you how to look after them and you should listen carefully to what he has to say. After that you will need to visit your dentist at least once a month for adjustments and reviews and at the end of the treatment you will be free of braces and given retainers to make sure you teeth stay in position.
Yes, absolutely. You will just need to take extra precautions not to get hit on the face as this could cause more severe injury than without the braces. It is safe to wear a mouthguard to avoid this from happening. It will support your mouth, will keep it intact and will lessen impact.