Published on February 9th, 2021
Braces are meant to fix teeth that are out of alignment, crooked and crowded teeth. This condition is known as malocclusion. They are worn mostly worn by children and teenagers, but adults get to wear them too.
Braces help the teeth to slowly adjust and get straightened so that they can bite properly. They are made of metal or ceramic wires and binding materials that attach them to the teeth.
According to Mayo Clinic, braces are highly effective in most cases depending on the patient’s ability to follow the orthodontist’s instructions.
They are usually worn for one to three years and following the orthodontist’s instructions ensures that it is worn for the shortest time possible. Here are some things to consider about using braces.
1. Initial Discomfort
The use of braces comes with discomfort initially. The process of setting it up comes with pain, but the good news is that it can be treated with pain relievers and smoothies.
The first few weeks also come with discomfort as the mouth adjusts to adapt to the changes. This discomfort only means that the braces are working.
2. Expensive
Braces are expensive. In America, dependent children are covered by health and dental insurance to handle them, but adult braces are not.
Orthodontists usually consider payment plans as alternatives for adults to afford them. For children, braces can cost $5,000 while adults range between $5,000 and $7,000. They are expensive but worth it because they are highly effective.
3. Maintenance
The braces and teeth should be well catered for to ensure that every potential complication is resolved totally.
An example of such potential complications includes gum disease and tooth decay. Below are some practices that will safeguard the oral health of a person wearing braces.
- Visiting the orthodontist every 8 to 10 weeks to check if oral health and braces are well catered for. This also involves visiting a dentist every 6 months or once a year for cleaning.
- Brushing after meals and using a special floss recommended by the orthodontist. This is to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and plaque between the braces and teeth, which can cause gum disease or tooth decay.
4. Dietary Changes
Necessary dietary changes must be incorporated. This is not an easy decision for patients, but it is a sacrifice that must be given for the sake of sound dental health.
Foods like popcorns, chewing gum, candy, and other chewy and crunchy foods. The recommended diet includes smoothies, milk, mashed potatoes, tofu, custard, leafy vegetables that have been cut up, and other food rich in proteins, minerals, and vitamins that are soft in the mouth.
5. Wax, Lip Balm, And Salty Water Rinses
Orthodontic wax is a remedy for irritation in the mouth due to the installed braces and can be obtained by the orthodontist who should recommend or prescribe them.
A lip balm is meant to give your lips some moisture as the braces is being installed. Also, saltwater can be used for natural relief. Half a teaspoon of table salt with a cup of water can soothe the mouth and treat irritations.
Finally
The whole process and experiences require patience and following all instructions from the orthodontics thoroughly. With professionals like Orthodontics Sydney, you are sure to end up with a healthy smile.
Health Disclaimer :
Information provided by Newszii.com does in no way substitute for qualified medical opinion. Any text, videos or any other material provided by us should be considered as generic information only. Any health related information may vary from person to person, hence we advice you to consult specialists for more information.
