Whilst braces have a reputation for being unsightly and uncomfortable, they are a remarkably effective orthodontic treatment for correcting crooked and misaligned teeth. Children and adults can both benefit from having custom made braces fitted, which will help to correct the alignment of teeth and restore a glowing smile. Braces also have a number of additional benefits for dental health, and in this blog post we will be sharing some of these.
How do Braces Work?
Braces can be pre-fabricated or custom made to suit your teeth and jaw, and they consist of metal brackets, wires and elastic bands which are attached to your teeth and help to gradually move teeth into their optimal position. During your initial consultation, an orthodontist will assess your teeth and jaw to determine the best course of treatment. This will usually involve X-rays, in addition to taking an impression of your teeth. Once the braces have been produced, your orthodontist will bond the brackets to your teeth using a special adhesive. An arch wire is then placed through the brackets, and the tension is adjusted to provide sufficient pressure on the teeth. With periodic adjustments, this pressure will aid in shifting your teeth into their proper position over time. It can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to achieve the desired results, and regular dental visits are required in order to track your progress and make adjustments as necessary.
Metal braces are the most common form of braces, and they are ideal for treating complex dental issues. Whilst many people tend to favour Invisalign treatment for its discrete appearance, it is important to note that braces typically take less time to align teeth and are a more affordable treatment option.
Aesthetic and Dental Health Benefits of Braces
1. Improved Oral Health
When teeth have large gaps, are overcrowded or misaligned, it is easy for food particles and debris to get trapped within the crevices. These areas are difficult to clean effectively, which results in excessive build up of plaque and bacteria. This in turn can increase the risk of gum disease, cavities and other dental issues. Braces can help to improve dental health by straightening the teeth, making it easier to achieve an effective clean and maintain a glowing, healthy smile for life.
2. Improved Chewing and Digestion
Some people with misaligned teeth experience difficulties with their bite and ability to chew their food, and may report symptoms of jaw pain or headache due to the increased pressure and wear and tear on the teeth. Once the teeth have been corrected with orthodontic treatment, many people experience an improvement in chewing and digestion.
3. Reduced Risk of Injury
Having a misaligned jaw or protruding teeth places you at an increased risk of experiencing dental trauma. Braces are an effective and affordable way to correct these issues and reduce your risk of injury.
4. Improved Speech
Misaligned teeth can result in speech impediments such as lisps, and it can be difficult to pronounce certain words or sounds. Braces can help to improve your speech and communication, enabling you to communicate clearly and with confidence.
5. Improved Appearance and Self Esteem
Studies have found that those who smile often report higher levels of self confidence and happiness. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your smile, rest assured that you are not alone. Orthodontic treatment can improve your appearance and help you regain confidence in your smile.
Book an Orthodontic Consultation at Glowing Smiles Dental Today
If you have concerns about the appearance of your teeth, please don’t hesitate to book an orthodontic appointment at Glowing Smiles Dental today. Call now to speak with a member of our team, and take the first step towards improving your smile and overall dental health.
