Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

Orthodontic treatment is only necessary if you are not contented with your smile because of misaligned teeth or wide gaps between your teeth. Otherwise, it is unnecessary if you have a perfectly good smile. That said, we all don’t have perfect smiles. Some of us have to undergo several cosmetic treatments to get the smile we’ve always wanted.

Straightening teeth can help you achieve an ideal smile, and this is done through orthodontic treatment. In this blog, we will answer some of the most common questions about orthodontics to help you make an informed decision.

What is the Best Age for Orthodontic Treatment?

Typically, there is no standard age set as the best time to start this treatment. However, experts usually recommend one to start interceptive as early as seven years old. Interceptive orthodontics is conducted before the placement of braces to prepare a child for easier placement and correction of problems.

However, it does not mean that your child cannot get braces just because she did not undergo interceptive orthodontics. She can still get braces even if she’s older than most kids getting braces. In fact, even adults can get braces whenever they want.

Recently, there have come transparent braces, commonly referred to as aligners. Clear aligners are removable, comfortable, and almost invisible, making them an ideal choice for adults and older teens. They are easy to care for, but you should ensure to wear them at least 22 hours per day.

Your dentist will teach you how to place the aligners and remove them while eating or drinking. Typically, you’re not supposed to eat or drink when you have your aligners in your mouth. You can take water, though. Clear aligners are often popular among adults because it is easy for an adult to care for them. A kid might forget to remove them while eating. Traditional braces are better suited for younger children.

Is Orthodontic Treatment Painful?

No, using the word painful to describe the discomfort associated with braces is an overstatement. Yes, it will take some days before you are used to the braces or aligners, but it shouldn’t take long before you are comfortable with them. Furthermore, your dentist will teach you techniques on how to manage the discomfort and get used to the braces even faster.

What are the Benefits of Orthodontics?

The obvious benefit of orthodontics is improving your smile. However, that does not mean that that’s the only benefit that comes with this treatment. Other benefitsinclude:

• Braces can improve your bite. Inappropriate bites can be very painful, and correcting them can make your life even more comfortable.
• Orthodontics improves your general oral health since it becomes easier to brush and floss your teeth if they are perfectly aligned.
• An improved smile can improve your first impression, self-esteem, confidence and even make you a happier person.
• Orthodontics can improve your speech if the alignment of your teeth affects it.
• It becomes easy to chew food to the tiniest bits, which is ideal for digestion.
• Reduced risk of dental trauma from protruding teeth

What Can I Eat with Braces?

Braces will not force you to change your diet. However, it is better to avoid crunchy foods. Eat soft foods and whenever possible, cut your foods into smaller pieces to avoid damaging the braces when eating. Chewy foods such as bagels and sticky ones like caramel are not recommended as they increase the chances of getting stuck between the braces.

If food particles are caught between the braces, the risk for dental decay increases tremendously. Once you are done with the treatment, you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying they will affect your treatment.

However, you can continue enjoying all your favorite foods during the treatment if you choose clear aligners. Clear aligners are removable, meaning you can remove them whenever you are eating. Just make sure to brush your teeth and rinse the aligners before putting them back.

How Much Does Orthodontic Treatment Cost?

Typically, there is no standard price for this procedure. The cost is different in every clinic, depending on the location of the clinic, standards of living in the specific area, the extent of your problem, and the type of braces you prefer.

Dental By Design

Talk to us if you are looking for an experienced cosmetic dentist to help with orthodontics. We provide services of the highest quality, and you can also count on us for preventive and restorative procedures. Book an appointment now.