What Kinds of Braces Are There?
There are multiple types of braces on the market. Making sure you pick the right kind for your lifestyle is something you can talk to your orthodontist about when coming in for an appointment.
The most traditional type of braces is metal braces. With this type of braces, metal brackets will be attached to the front side of your teeth with special glue, and then the brackets will be connected via wires. Small elastics are then placed on the brackets to keep everything in place. This type of braces requires periodic visits to the orthodontist’s office to tighten the wires and continually apply pressure on the teeth.
Clear braces work similarly to metal braces, but they use a ceramic material for the brackets instead of metal. This makes the braces blend in with the teeth so they are not as noticeable as traditional braces.
Self-ligating braces have specialized brackets that independently slide to tighten over time. This means fewer orthodontist visits for manual tightening, and patients often find this option more comfortable.
Are There Any Alternatives to Braces?
Yes! Invisalign uses clear, plastic aligners to move the teeth and jaw instead of metal brackets and wires. The aligners often go unnoticeable to others so people may not even know you are undergoing treatment. Invisalign is able to fix most of the same issues like braces, so speak to your orthodontist about this option if you are interested.
Can I Get Braces on the Same Day As My Consultation?
At Farina Orthodontic Specialists, we offer same-day braces! At your initial consultation, our team will conduct an oral examination and take X-rays. After we’ve gathered that information, we will create a treatment plan. If you are a candidate for braces, you can have the brackets placed same day!
How Long Do I Have to Wear My Braces?
The average treatment time for braces is about two years, though this really depends on what problems you are being treated for. Simple cosmetic fixes will be able to incur shorter treatment times, whereas serious orthodontic intervention will take closer to the two or three-year mark.
How Much Will My Braces Cost?
The price really depends on the patient and what they are being treated for. To get a better idea of the price for your personal treatment, you can schedule an appointment with your orthodontist. We understand that braces are not cheap, but they truly are an investment that will benefit you for life. During your consultation, be sure to inquire about any payment plans or discounts available to help make the cost of braces more manageable for you!
Will Braces Be Painful?
Braces do tend to cause some discomfort in the mouth after they are first put in and the following tightening. This soreness can be relieved by eating softer foods or taking pain medication for a couple of days until the irritation subsides. Sometimes the friction between brackets and soft tissue of the mouth can cause some tenderness, though this can be solved with dental wax provided by your orthodontist.
Will Braces Affect My Lifestyle?
Braces will not drastically alter your daily life. Mild irritation may occur but this should not stop you from going about your day. Some changes include avoiding certain foods that are chewy, sticky, or hard as these can harm your braces and lead to an impromptu visit to the orthodontist. Another small change is that you may want to wear a braces-friendly mouth guard during sports or physical activities.
One thing to keep in mind is that your braces are like a magnet to food and plaque that want to cause cavities. You should take extra care when brushing your teeth, and try to floss once a day with the special flosser provided by your orthodontist.
What Should I Expect When Getting My Braces Off?
It’s such an exciting day when you get your braces removed! After years of treatment, you finally are able to showcase your beautifully straight teeth. During this appointment, your orthodontist will remove all the metal brackets and wiring. They will clean any residual glue off your teeth and give you a retainer to keep your teeth in position. At first, you will need to wear the retainer as often as possible, and only remove it for cleaning your teeth or meals. After a certain duration, you can wear your retainer for only part of the day or at night when you are sleeping.