Metro Decatur Dental Group PC: The #1 in Lithonia, GA Orthodontics Braces

Dental braces are orthodontic devices used to straighten and align teeth. They also help position the teeth in relation to the bite. The main goal of dental braces is to improve dental health. There are several different types of braces available. Learn more about each type to learn which one might be best for you.

While you may have a fear of dentists and braces, they don’t cause permanent damage. The reason is that you must maintain your appointments and wear your braces for the recommended time period. Patients may experience some level of discomfort, but it’s usually more mental than physical. In addition, braces can cause some temporary teeth movement. It is important to remember that orthodontics is a constantly evolving science, which means that teeth will move a bit during treatment.

In addition to wearing braces, your child should brush his or her teeth daily. It’s important to visit the dentist every six months for regular cleanings. You should also limit starches and sugary snacks. Starch debris can convert to harmful acids that can damage teeth and promote plaque formation. Also, avoid hard or sticky snacks. These can be difficult to remove from the braces. Popcorn and nuts are also bad choices.

When wearing braces, your dentist will use a metal archwire and brackets to gently push the teeth into the correct position. The arch wire, which runs between the brackets, is then threaded through them. Your doctor will then tighten the wire and adjust the bands as needed to get the teeth in the right position. The entire process usually takes several months. If you are wearing braces for a long time, your dentist may recommend a different type of brace.

Braces aren’t painful, although the process is a little time consuming. You may experience some soreness after the first appointment and during the first couple of days. Once the braces are on, you will be given instructions for how to clean them and what foods to avoid. You will also be provided with an oral health guide.

Self-ligating braces are another option. These brackets are made for people who do not want to have to tighten their braces on a regular basis. They use an advanced sliding mechanism to gently pull the wires into position. This leads to increased comfort and a more aesthetic appearance. Additionally, self-ligating braces can speed up the treatment process.

In addition to correcting misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatments may also be used to treat bad bites. This type of condition is known as malocclusion, and it can affect the way people bite and chew. People with misaligned teeth are more likely to develop gum disease, decay, and injury. Fortunately, orthodontic treatment can be done at any age.

Patients who wear braces will typically wear them for two to three years, but the treatment can be shorter or longer depending on the severity of the problem. The time taken to complete the treatment process is up to two years for adults, while children can have their treatment completed in as little as one year. Children may experience discomfort at first, but it should subside within the first week. Children should wear a retainer for at least six months. This is an invisible plastic shell that will hold the teeth in their new positions.

While there are many different types of braces, traditional metal braces are the most common. They consist of metal bands on the back of the molars and small metal brackets on the front teeth. The bands are connected to thin, springy wires that gently move the teeth into place. These wires may be fixed to the brackets with metal ties, elastics, or clasps.

Traditional braces are sturdy and tend not to stain the teeth. They consist of individual brackets affixed to the teeth, along with an archwire that constantly exerts gentle pressure on the teeth. The brackets are made of metal, but they can also be made of “tooth colored” ceramic and clear synthetic material. The latter is more comfortable, but ceramic brackets are also susceptible to discoloration due to smoking and certain foods.

While orthodontics is commonly associated with teenagers, an increasing number of adults are also wearing them. Regardless of age, they are highly effective at realigning teeth. Unlike some other types of treatment, they work the same way, resulting in a more predictable and consistent result. Patients who are healthy and have not suffered from gum disease are often better candidates for orthodontics.