All About Braces Braces are a highly effective, popular orthodontic treatment that can correct the alignment of your teeth and jaws, giving you straighter teeth and a healthier, more confident smile. However, there's more to braces than wearing brackets and wires on your teeth. Senestraro Family Orthodontics is here to answer all of your questions about braces to help you understand the treatment. Read More About Braces
Types of BracesMost people are familiar with traditional metal braces. This treatment uses metal brackets with metal wires. The wires are held onto the brackets with elastic ligatures. While the most well-known, metal braces are not the only type of braces available. Ceramic braces are just like traditional metal braces, except that the brackets are made from ceramic. The wire may be metal, but it can also be made from a tooth-colored material. While more discreet, the ceramic brackets are more susceptible to chipping or breaking. Read more about the types of braces Issues Braces Can CorrectBraces are effective for fixing a variety of different issues. They can correct the alignment of teeth, fixing overcrowding, or close gaps. They can fix bite issues such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite. They can correct rotated, tilted, or protruding teeth. They can also help to bring your jaws into proper alignment. Because braces fix bite issues, they can also correct problems such as breathing issues, issues biting and chewing, TMJ, and more. Braces Aren't Just for Younger TeensBraces are thought to be a treatment for adolescents and younger teens, typically in middle school or early high school. These are not the only people who can wear, or benefit from braces. Older teens and adults can reap the same benefits, including an improved smile and improved oral health. Read more about adult orthodontics. Taking Care of BracesTaking care of braces is essential for their effectiveness, and ensuring that you see optimal results in the shortest time possible. You should brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Ideally, you should also brush after each meal. Take care to spend several seconds on each tooth, cleaning the tooth's surface as well as around the brackets. Flossing can be challenging, but a floss threader can help to make it easier. If you play sports, it is highly recommended that you wear a mouthguard to prevent damaging your braces and protect your mouth. Read more about protecting your braces. Foods to Avoid With BracesWhen you have braces, there are certain foods that you should avoid to avoid damaging wires or popping brackets loose. Avoid whole apples and raw carrots, cauliflower, and broccoli. Instead, you can choose softer fruits and vegetables. Cook or steam vegetables for a softer texture. Stay away from hard, crusty bread, chewy meats, and sticky or chewy candies. What to Do in a Braces EmergencyBraces emergencies do occasionally happen. A bracket can come loose or wire might bend. If you do experience an emergency, call the office right away. We can advise you on the best course of action and schedule you for an appointment as soon as possible. Read more about emergency orthodontic care. For more information about braces, and to find out if they are right for you, call Senestraro Family Orthodontics at (503) 925-8899 today. |
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