When is it necessary to wear fixed braces, and how to take care of your teeth?

Improperly spaced teeth are not only an aesthetic problem. Disorder in the arrangement of the teeth in the jaw can cause health problems. Most people associate wearing fixed braces mainly with younger people when the jaw is still developing. However, it is important to know that it is never too late to wear braces. People still wear braces successfully after the age of 20 and 30.

Improper tooth position can lead to several other problems besides chewing. It can cause speech difficulties, especially when it comes to children. Teeth arrangements like this can make it difficult to properly and thoroughly clean your teeth and the space between them, and it creates a negative effect on gum health and jaw development.

Some children even have hereditary predispositions for irregular tooth growth, but much more common habits that a child has affected the teeth to erupt incorrectly. Some of them are finger-sucking or using a pacifier.

What do fixed braces consist of and how are they placed?

Fixed braces are made out of brackets and metal wires (bows) that connect them. Brackets are attached to each tooth. Braces are made individually after examining the patient and analyzing an X-ray of the patient’s teeth.

Braces are made from different materials, like metal and ceramic. Also, they can be made from transparent materials, which make the braces almost invisible.

The placement of fixed braces takes about 40 minutes per jaw and is not painful. Mild discomfort and pain may occur a few hours after the procedure. It takes 3-4 days until the jaw becomes accustomed to the fixed device.

When is the right time for placing the fixed braces?

The right time to wear fixed braces is the period after the emergence of all molars. It is possible to notice predispositions and risks for the appearance of this problem at regular dental examinations at an earlier age, while the development of the jaw is still going on. It is better to act preventively.

Before placing the braces, all teeth must be healthy. In case the teeth are not, it is important to solve the problems before the procedure.

How long is it necessary to wear fixed braces?

For visible results, it is necessary to wear fixed braces for at least a year, and for that reason, the patient must be mentally prepared. After that period, lasting results are achieved, and after removing the braces, the smile will be more beautiful, and the bite will be better. Which means that the jaw joint will function more correctly. The patience and effort will pay off in full.

After a month, most patients get used to the feeling of the braces, and proper hygiene becomes their routine. Care is of great importance because improper hygiene can lead to additional problems with the teeth.

Therefore, in the beginning, you may have to visit the dentist more often to adjust the braces and for additional tips on their maintenance. It is relevant to report to the dentist all possible problems that might occur. Make sure you share with your dentist any discomfort like itching, cracking, falling out, etc.

How to maintain oral hygiene while wearing fixed braces?

It is necessary to brush your teeth after every meal because food stays on the braces brackets to a greater extent. In addition to the classic brush, make sure you use interdental brushes for cleaning. It is important to clean the space between the teeth and the braces thoroughly.

Mild irritation of the inner cheek or irritation of some parts of the oral cavity may occur in some cases. The friction of parts of the braces can cause this discomfort. Adding protective silicone or wax over these parts will fix the problem.

Which rules you’ll need to follow during the meals?

Foods that stick to your teeth, such as gummy candies and chewing gums, should be avoided as well as solid foods such as apples and other solid fruits. Make sure you pay special attention to hard foods that can potentially damage them. Consume food in smaller pieces and chew slowly.

When choosing a dental polyclinic, it is necessary to ask what’s included in the price. Whether there may be some hidden costs (additional work, wire tightening, etc.). Do your research about the expertise of the staff, check the recommendations and experiences of other patients before making a decision.

If you are thinking about fixed braces, you want to make an appointment or an additional consultation, feel free to contact us or visit our polyclinic. The experts from Dental Oral Center will be happy to solve all your doubts and answer all questions.

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