If you have misaligned or crooked teeth, then it is high time you see a dentist for the purpose of having dental braces fitted. Dental braces are devices used in orthodontics and they help align or straighten teeth. Once this is done, you are then able to bite and chew properly, thus improving your dental health. Having straight teeth may also improve your self-confidence. In this article, you will learn what you should expect from the procedure and the proper way of maintaining braces.

Procedure of having braces fitted

The first step involves the dentist determining whether you really need braces. Once they do, your teeth are inspected thoroughly. This involves you going through that include moulds, x-rays and having impressions made. From these, the dentist is able to establish the next course of action after analyzing and determining where the problem is at.

Treatment length

Treatment length for dental braces usually varies and this is from six months to two and a half years. This sorely depends on the complexity and the type of problem. Before the braces are fitted, spacers are required two weeks beforehand and they are responsible for spreading apart back teeth for the purposes of creating enough space for the bands that will hold the braces in place.

How braces work

Braces work through application of pressure on the teeth and this slowly moves teeth in a specific direction. How long you will wear the braces depends on the recommendation by the dentist. To ensure the best results, you need to know how to properly maintain the braces during your treatment.

Maintaining braces

This requires a lot of time and effort on your part and for starters, you need to follow good oral hygiene habits. This is because food particles may get stuck in between the braces. Once you have established a good oral routine like brushing with a soft brush and flossing, you will be on your way to effective braces maintenance.

You should also follow a tooth-friendly diet that involves foods with low acidity so as to prevent damage to your tooth enamel. Also, consider avoiding foods with high levels of sugar since this will reduce chances of tooth decay. Gum should also be avoided and you should not at any time use toothpicks to remove food lodged in between the teeth.

Following your dentist's instruction is also important, particularly in regards to placing the bands on your braces at specific points in time. This enables you to eventually observe the results you are aiming for in the set time. For more information, contact a specialist like Smile Central.

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