Orthodontic Treatment: Do Braces Work?
Braces do work and are generally effective in correcting the position of the teeth. However, for orthodontic treatment in Dorval, QC, to be successful, you go to do these four things:
- Know why you are getting braces
- Choose the suitable braces
- Go through the treatment
- Care for your braces
It is important to visit an orthodontist near you for assessment and discussion on the most suitable braces.
- When is Orthodontic Treatment Recommended?
Bite problems are the most common reason why a dentist may recommend orthodontic braces. Our bite refers to how the upper and lower jaw meets and usually, they should fit seamlessly. However, some people suffer from malocclusion that affects how the jaw meets. Some of the most common bite problems include overbite, underbite, and crossbite.
But the dentist can suggest orthodontic treatment to correct other problems like spacing between your teeth. If you have a large space between your teeth, it may affect your smile. Orthodontic treatment may work to bring the teeth to close together.
Dental overcrowding may also need orthodontic treatment. The process will first begin with teeth extraction to make room for the orthodontic treatment.
Thumb-sucking may cause jaw and alignment problems. As part of the orthodontic treatment, the dentist will offer counseling and education to help the child in correcting the habit.
- What are the Available Brace Options?
We offer several braces that can help correct the alignment. They include:
- Traditional braces
These are the commonly available types and are made with wires and brackets. The braces are fixed and you need to visit the dentist to have them inserted. You also need a dental checkup every couple of weeks to get them adjusted.
- Lingual braces
These are similar to the traditional braces, but the wires are placed on the inside of the teeth, making them unnoticeable.
- Clear braces
These are removable and customized braces, usually made of thermoplastic material. The most common clear braces are the Invisalign®. The dentist will give you a series of braces to correct the teeth. You will need to wear each set for 20 to 22 hours, 14 days a set. Similar to the traditional braces, you will need to visit the dentist for assessment and monitoring of the treatment.
- What Does the Treatment Involve?
The orthodontic treatment is done in three phases:
- Mapping of the treatment process
The dentist will begin the treatment with examination and planning for the treatment. A 3D scan can be used to make a precise image of your teeth and gums (mostly done in Invisalign treatment). The dentist will use the image to create the braces according to your teeth and gum shape. The software can be used to determine the pressure and time needed to correct the teeth. You will be able to preview your smile after the treatment.
- The treatment process
The process will differ based on the type of braces you choose. For the traditional braces, the dentist will fix the wires and brackets on the teeth. The clear braces, on the other hand, involve the use of a series of braces.
The treatment process can last between 18 and 24 months. It can take longer for the traditional braces to correct the teeth because they also move the roots of the teeth.
- Retainer phase
After the orthodontic treatment, the dentist will give a retainer device to hold the teeth in place. The teeth can revert to the old position if you don’t wear a retainer.
- How Can You Care for the Braces?
Dental hygiene is important during your orthodontic treatment. The traditional braces can trap food particles on the wires, which can increase the risk of decay. Cleaning your teeth every day is crucial to keeping bacteria away.
If you are using clear braces, it is important to rinse them before putting them back on. Wear the braces for 20 to 22 hours daily for the best results.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Clinique Dentaire Dorval if you have misaligned teeth and overcrowding and the orthodontist will take you through the treatment process and what to expect.