While there isn’t an ideal time to get braces, there is an age that makes someone a good candidate for the treatment.
This usually is around the time when baby teeth fall out, and most of the permanent teeth start to grow in.
Or your permanent teeth may have already grown in, and the treatment wasn’t offered to you at an earlier stage.
Some people may decide not to bother, while some may have misaligned teeth that may see them take the treatment.
Either way, if you’re struggling to decide whether you need them, if your child is at the right age, or if you are worried about what problems may arise, read on in this guide to find out.
Do I Need Braces?
In short, you may probably choose to get braces because your teeth look visibly crooked or if they are overcrowded.
You can feel both rows of teeth, and if you notice teeth in front or behind each other or teeth that may be twisted and don’t have room to grow straight.
Another reason you may choose to get braces is that you may find it difficult brushing around or flossing between teeth which can lead to the build-up of plaque and any stuck food particles.
This could lead to more problems down the road, including bad breath or an indication of tooth decay.
If you’re wondering if your child needs them, it’s best if you check in with your dentist so they can track the progress of your child’s growing teeth and can refer you to an orthodontist if necessary.
Can I Get Braces As An Adult?
The simple answer is, yes, you can. It is optimal to look into the treatment with children aged between 10 and 16 because the teeth are easier to move around when permanent teeth are coming through.
You may have found your smile was fine when you were in your early to mid-twenties, but as teeth can move slowly, you could find yourself needing some form of intervention if the movement has had that much effect.
What Types Of Braces Are Available?
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This will depend on the recommendation that an orthodontist sees as the most optimal and effective treatment available.
It would be wise when going for an examination at your dentist to discuss the various types of treatment available, especially if your dentist isn’t able to fit your braces and a referral to an orthodontic clinic is needed.
Now you know whether you need braces or not, let’s look at the 5 main types of braces you’re likely to see when discussing treatment options.
Metal Braces
These are the most common braces and are popular among children and young adults. They work by being applied to the teeth and connecting them with a wire.
The wire is tied to the braces using elastic ties, which come in different colours if you or your child is feeling adventurous!
In order to move the teeth, your dentist or orthodontist has to make adjustments to the wire every 4-8 weeks.
Ceramic Braces
These braces are made of a clear, tooth-coloured material. They work in the same way as metal braces but are more discreet and are popular with those who don’t think lingual braces or clear aligners will be as effective for them.
If you’re using these to make that smile less crooked, the same care and attention have to be given here because these braces can stain easier, but all the same, they can be an effective treatment option if you decide to choose them.
Self-ligating Braces
These braces are a specific type of treatment that works similarly to metal and ceramic braces. They also rely on a wire to move the teeth but use clips to hold the wire in place instead of elastic ties.
They are also easy to adjust so appointments with your dentist or orthodontist are shorter, which is excellent for those who don’t like sitting in the dental chair for long periods.
Lingual Braces
These braces are the most specialized form of brace, and some practices you go to may not offer this as an option. It’s worth consulting with your dentist if you believe this is a viable option for you, so it is worth asking about.
The brace is applied behind the teeth, which offers invisibility and is easily customizable for specific teeth, and can even cater to more complex orthodontic needs.
The only drawback is that in some cases, speech may be slightly altered and irritation to the tongue can occur, but these can disappear as your mouth becomes accustomed to the brace.
Clear Aligners
An aligner is a plastic mold that is placed on top of your teeth that can touch up any adjustments or might have some overbite or gaps in your front teeth.
They are removable and can be faster than traditional braces in some limited treatments.
If you have more specific or complex needs, you may need to combine this treatment with lingual braces.
Still, it would be best to get an opinion at your next dentist appointment or if you’re going to an orthodontist for an examination.
What Problems Might I Get If I Have Braces?
The main issues you’re likely to encounter are soreness or pain in the mouth, especially when you are getting your braces adjusted, but this is essential.
Your dentist can offer advice in the form of leaflets so you can ensure the braces are working effectively for you.
The Bottom Line
Although there are many different options for braces, the bigger picture here is that the end result will give you a breath of confidence.
Whatever age you or your child may be, there is bound to be an option that works for you, but you want to ensure that you maintain a cleaning routine for your overall help, and keeping up with this is likely to put a smile on your face.
He has combined both of these skills to create his first company, Isopharm Limited, which became one of the top learning platforms within the dental industry.
With over 120,000 active users, he has been able to educate others in order to provide better dental care around the world.
With his expertise and work in the field, Andrew has been able to help many dental care professionals succeed in treating their patients.
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