Braces treatment is a branch of orthodontic dentistry and is used to correct oral and facial anomalies originating from the teeth and surrounding tissues. With braces treatment, unhealthy dental problems are eliminated and aesthetic inconsistencies are treated.
Especially when applied at an early age, braces treatment is also frequently preferred by adults today and offers modern options that do not cause cosmetic discomfort during use.
When to Start Braces Treatment?
Braces treatment typically lasts 1 to 3 years, so it is especially recommended to start at a young age. However, there is no strict age limit for this method. In general, the ideal period for treatment is between the ages of 11 and 13, when all baby teeth have fallen out and permanent teeth have erupted. That said, orthodontic treatment is also possible for adults.
Anyone who wishes to have a beautiful smile and aesthetically pleasing teeth can begin braces treatment, regardless of age. However, before starting orthodontic treatment, procedures such as fillings, root canal treatments, or tooth extractions must be completed.
The type and duration of treatment may vary depending on the patient, as additional adjustments or interventions can be applied when necessary.
How Are Braces Applied?
Orthodontic treatment can be preferred by any individual who has crooked, misaligned, or irregular teeth. Although the visible wires in the mouth during the treatment may cause aesthetic concerns, once the process is completed, a very pleasant oral and dental structure is achieved. The aim of orthodontic treatment is to eliminate oral problems, ensure harmony between the upper and lower jaws, and provide the patient with an aesthetic and healthy smile.
Before treatment, an examination appointment is scheduled and a plan is made regarding how to resolve the patient’s problems. At this stage, one of the materials such as metal brackets, ceramic brackets, or invisible braces to be used in orthodontic treatment is decided. During the application, brackets through which wires pass are attached to the teeth. The wires on the brackets apply a certain amount of force to the teeth, allowing the tooth positions to gradually shift into the desired alignment.
Orthodontic treatment focuses on moving the teeth within the bone, and this movement is completed over several years. Therefore, in some cases, the treatment may progress in stages.
After a while, the patient may be given simple elastics that can be changed daily. Especially adult patients who are concerned about the appearance of braces can undergo treatment more comfortably with invisible braces. Modern treatment methods allow orthodontic treatment to be planned with less frequent and shorter appointments.
Things to Consider During Braces Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is a long process that requires patience. During this period, paying attention to the care of the teeth and braces and strictly following the dentist’s recommendations is important in order to prevent possible complications and to achieve a more effective treatment. For this reason, there are some points to be considered throughout the treatment:
- It is normal to feel pain for a while after braces are attached, but if the pain is continuous, a dentist should be consulted.
- Especially in the early stages of treatment, hard foods such as apples, pears, chips, and nuts should not be consumed.
- Sticky foods such as Turkish delight, gummy candies, chocolate, and chewing gum should not be consumed as they make brace care difficult.
- Alcoholic and carbonated beverages carry the risk of dislodging the brackets and are not recommended during treatment.
- Easily breakable and juicy foods that do not damage the braces should be consumed.
- The mouth area should be protected against hard impacts.
- Those who play sports or exercise outdoors should prefer movements that minimize the risk of falling.
- A soft toothbrush should be used during brushing, and brushing with excessive pressure should be avoided.
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