by Natalie Roberts
The use of braces and other appliances is known as orthodontics and treatment can be life-changing. Braces are used to correct crowded, crooked, and protruding teeth. They can also improve the appearance of your teeth for cosmetic reasons. Check out these 5 reasons you should get braces and how they work.
Braces work by putting constant pressure on your teeth for long periods of time which then moves them into the correct position. It shouldn’t hurt. You might feel some slight discomfort as they move, but it should be manageable. When you first get them fitted they might feel uncomfortable and a bit sore while you get used to them, but it is nothing that over the counter pain medicine shouldn’t relieve.
The American Dental Association (ADA) says that abnormal bites in children are normally noticeable from around age 6, and orthodontic treatment usually starts around 8 years old. Treatment is best while they are still growing and will be quicker. However, treatment as an adult is absolutely possible. It just might take longer.
1. Braces Improve Your Long-term Oral and Physical Health
Crooked and poorly aligned teeth can cause oral and physical health problems such as headaches, earache and jaw pain. Crowded and misaligned teeth can also make it difficult to brush and get in-between the teeth with floss. This can then lead to gum disease and decay. Braces will straighten the teeth, and then effective oral health care can be carried out.
2. They Can Help Your Overall Mouth Comfort
An overbite or underbite can cause a condition called Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) — also known as TMJ — which can cause chronic jaw pain, headaches and difficulty speaking and chewing. Braces help correct this.
3. They Can Improve Your Confidence
The first thing people usually notice about someone is their smile. How you feel about your teeth can have a huge impact on your self-esteem. If you don’t feel confident in your appearance, you might avoid smiling or cover your mouth when talking. Seeing your teeth transform from wearing braces could be the confidence boost you need.
4. Braces Have Evolved Over the Years
Braces are more comfortable and discreet than they used to be. They are less noticeable and can straighten your teeth quicker. Traditionally, braces have been made of metal. Brackets are attached to the teeth and metal wire is threaded through them and held in place with elastic bands. There is also a ceramic option that is less noticeable. Another option is invisible aligners, but this option isn’t usually the best course of treatment for complex cases. Invisible aligners are clear, plastic aligners you place in your mouth like retainers, but they require a lot of discipline to ensure they are worn consistently.
5. Braces Are Affordable
If you are paying for treatment, braces for children usually start around $5,000. For adults, orthodontic treatment isn’t usually covered through insurance. So, the price can be between $5,000 and $7,000 depending on the complexity of the treatment needed.
The good news is, there are affordable payment options available to help you spread the cost and make it more manageable. Book an appointment today with our orthodontist. They can advise on the best treatment plan and help you get the healthy smile you deserve!
Our dental clinic is available in various convenient locations across California, so if you are in need of a dentist in Long Beach, Rialto, North Hills, South Gate, East Los Angeles or dentists in Lancaster CA. Our staff are always available to answer your queries and assist you with your dental needs.
Natalie Roberts is a freelance content writer in the healthcare space and book author. You can find out more about her work by visiting her website.
Sources:
American Association of Orthodontists – How Orthodontics Works: Braces
MouthHealthy – Braces
Invisalign – Home
