Braces are usually prescribed by dentists to rectify orthodontic problems. Using braces is quite common as not everyone has a perfect set of teeth. Dentists usually will conduct a dental check up to diagnose when a client would need to wear braces and what type will be suited for them.
Some according to their needs would need to start wearing braces in their teens. This is considered ideal as permanent teeth are emerging and changes and improvements and adjustments can be made to teeth and bone structure. Though teen age is best suited many adults also wear braces to correct their teeth structure and for an improved appearance.
There are different types of braces one can choose from. Metal braces or the traditional braces, ceramic, damon, clear braces or invisalign are the most common ones. The traditional ones have brackets made of wires and they are attached to each individual tooth. The braces that are currently used are much lighter than the earlier ones. Ceramic braces get their name from the material they are made from. Damon braces are popular as they need less frequent dental consultations and give faster results. Custom made braces that are invisible is what invisalign braces are. They usually resemble mouth guards and can be removed while eating or while cleaning.
Irrespective of the type of braces used, treatment plan varies from person to person. How complicated the dental concern is, a person’s age etc. will affect the length of time braces need to be used. Even after braces are removed, retainers are used to make sure that alignment that is preferred is obtained even after removing braces.
Who needs braces?
Children and adults both benefit from wearing braces. To know if braces are needed to help correct the structure of teeth few issues can be looked into.
- Early loss of teeth Overcrowding of teeth
Some children lose their teeth relatively early, while some others have too many teeth leading to overcrowding. When children lose their teeth early, then the support for other teeth will also be lost. Teeth might even change their position.
Some would have too many teeth in their mouth. This will lead to overcrowding of the teeth and teeth can be seen as ‘stacked’ in the mouth. Losing teeth or overcrowding of teeth poses different dental health concerns. Overcrowding can lead to less oral hygiene and teeth decay. Plaque build-up can happen in between teeth that are overcrowded. This can lead to gum and bone loss.
- Chewing or biting problems
Chewing or biting problems occurs when the teeth hamper the movement of jaws. The teeth are not aligned properly and are not able to function correctly. They do not help in grinding teeth and rub against each other and they lose their structure. If this continues unchecked, then a severe loss of teeth can be noticed.
- Disproportionate teeth or jaws
If one is having unequal teeth or jaw, this can affect the symmetry of the face. Deformities such as protruding lips, chins or jaws are usually seen. While some will have genetical reasons for these type of problems, accidents can also bring out this condition. Dentists usually recommend teeth extraction to accommodate teeth when they are brought back into position.
- Braces after surgery
Braces are used as the end of treatment for dental surgery. This is usually prescribed by dentists in the case of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Pain and discomfort associated with TMJ can be alleviated through surgery and in order to make sure that teeth do not shift their position braces are prescribed.
- Longevity and maintaining good teeth
Now, more than ever people have a long life. To enjoy a good life and to maintain good health it is important that oral health and hygiene is taken care of. If teeth are crooked, overcrowded or misaligned then it is important that these dental problems are set right by braces. Taking good care of teeth is a must if one wishes to enjoy good overall health.
- Low self-esteem
Though not related to one’s health, braces are the answer to one’s self esteem issue. Many people who suffer from dental problems also experience low self-confidence. They are not able to perform well at work, speak with people or have a good social life. Their appearance affects them badly. Correcting one’s misaligned teeth and having a good set of teeth sure goes a long way in boosting self-confidence.
- Speech impairment
Overcrowded teeth or disproportionate jaws affect speech. They are not able to share their ideas with others. Their speech is not clear and this also affects their self-image. If one is experiencing this type of issues it is important to check it with a dental specialist and look into measures that can set right the problem.
Mentioned above are some of the reasons when children and adults alike would need braces. The overall health of a person is connected to dental health. It is important to have dental consultations for children as soon as their first teeth erupt. Dental health is not the only aspect one should be considered about, the health of gums and bones are also important.
When children have regular dental check-ups, it is easy to check and diagnose dental issues they might have. Many orthodontic problems can be corrected if they are diagnosed at a young age. Children may also develop dental issues due to thumb sucking, poor nutrition etc. Dentists are able to guide young parents in dealing with these different issues. This will ensure that the oral health of children is perfect right from their growing years.
But for some reason, dental problems would not have been corrected during childhood. There is still hope as adults can also correct their dental problems using braces. Check with an experienced dentist and discuss the different dental issues that is disturbing – jaw pain, headache, bad breath etc. are some of the issues that point to serious issues. It is thus vital that proper care is given to oral and dental health.