Braces in Owensboro, KY
For some people, braces are the best and most effective way to get straight, beautiful teeth. If you’ve always wanted to have a beautiful smile, braces can help make that happen. Many children need braces in adolescence to correct misalignments, but there is no age limit for braces installation. Children and adults alike use this very effective orthodontic tool to achieve their goals for their smiles.
How do braces work?
Braces are made up of brackets, wires and rubber bands. When installed on the teeth by our Owensboro dentist, braces apply pressure to the teeth to move them slowly over time. As the braces take effect, they change the shape of the jaw, which affects the alignment of the teeth. Braces are readjusted periodically over time, so the pressure on the teeth changes as the teeth themselves change shape.
Are braces painful?
The braces installation process is not uncomfortable, but the few days following the installation of your braces, or after an adjustment, you may find that your braces are uncomfortable. Remember, braces work by putting pressure on your teeth and by slowly changing the shape of your jaw over time. You will probably feel something as the braces start to work! Your orthodontist can help you manage the discomfort. Ibuprofen can help as well.
Types of Braces
There are multiple types of braces. Your orthodontist will help you decide what kind of braces are right for you. Metal braces are the most traditional and common types of braces, however, other types of braces can look and function much differently.
- Ceramic braces are white and match the color of your teeth better than metal braces.
- Aligner trays are clear trays that can be put on and taken off. Many patients prefer them because they’re hard to see.
- Lingual braces are installed behind the teeth and cannot be seen.
How long do braces stay on your teeth?
How long you have to wear braces depends on the type of braces installed on your teeth and how much alignment correction your teeth require. Most people wear braces for one to three years. Your orthodontist can tell you how long you need to wear braces.
Are braces difficult to maintain?
Braces can be fragile, so maintaining your braces and avoiding certain types of foods is important. Eating crunchy foods when you wear braces can cause your braces to become damaged, which can mean expensive repairs. Eating sticky foods can make your braces difficult to clean while also contributing to bacteria buildup in your mouth.
Your orthodontist will show you how to brush your teeth with braces and also how to floss. Flossing in particular can be a different experience with braces, so it’s important to get a tutorial from your orthodontist and to follow a careful flossing regimen. Your orthodontist will likely tell you that you have to avoid apples, nuts, tough meat, corn on the cob and hard candy.
Think you need braces? Contact your dentist in Owensboro and Beaver Dam, KY
At Dr. Travis Wilson in Owensboro, KY, we can help you determine whether you need braces. If you have misaligned teeth or teeth that are crowded or crooked, you may be a good candidate for braces. We’ll start with an evaluation and then set up an orthodontic appointment, if we determine that braces are necessary.
To find out more about how braces work and whether this is a smart option for you, contact us for an appointment.
