Do you have misaligned teeth? Are you experiencing orthodontic issues? Treatment to straighten your teeth may benefit you. Here, our orthodontists in Surrey answer questions like 'Do you really need braces?' and how to tell if you need them.
The Big Question: Should I get braces?
Wondering, 'Do I need braces?' You're in the right spot. This article explores five indicators that suggest you might need braces and what you can expect once you get them.
5 Signs You Need Braces
1. Early Loss of Baby Teeth
If you lost your teeth significantly earlier than expected, your permanent teeth may be affected. In these situations, there is a possibility that permanent teeth may not develop correctly or might not emerge at all. If they do come in, braces can help ensure they are straight and aligned properly.
2. Difficulty in Biting
This applies to both adults and children. If you notice that you have difficulty biting your food or if you constantly bite the side of your cheeks or tongue while eating, your teeth may not be properly aligned. On top of this, if your upper teeth extend too far past your lower teeth, you have what is often referred to as an overbite. If your lower teeth extend past your upper teeth, this is an underbite. Both of these issues can be addressed with braces.
3. Crooked Teeth
A clear indication that braces may be necessary is when your teeth appear crowded or misaligned. Crooked teeth not only impact your appearance but also pose challenges for proper cleaning, potentially resulting in early tooth decay.
4. Too Much Space Between Teeth
A large gap between your teeth often indicates the need for braces. These gaps can lead to dental issues caused by inadequate spacing, particularly in children. Larger gaps may impact your jaw's function and bite. In these cases, braces may be able to help you correct the spacing between your teeth, restoring your oral health.
5. Your Jaw Shifts and Makes Sounds
If your or your child’s jaw moves unusually or produces strange sounds, it may indicate a problem. Such issues often arise from developmental factors affecting the jawline. Should you experience frequent jaw pain, it’s often recommended to consult an orthodontist to discuss whether braces could be a suitable option.
How long does it take to get braces?
Attaching braces to your teeth is a relatively quick process, usually completed in a single orthodontic visit. However, the preparation and aftercare can extend this timeline. Wearing braces requires dedication, routine adjustments, and careful maintenance. It’s also important to understand the steps involved in the process.
Various factors can affect the duration of this orthodontic visit, including the type of braces and the specific dental issues being addressed. During your visit, your orthodontist will begin by cleaning and drying your teeth, then bonding the brackets to the front teeth using glue. Next, the archwire is placed through the brackets and secured with elastic bands.
How long will I need braces for?
To achieve the desired results with your braces, you will typically need to wear them for at least 18 to 24 months. Treatment duration can extend to three years in cases of severe issues or for adult patients. However, if your situation is less severe and you consistently attend your appointments, you might only require six to twelve months. This varies by individual case.
The removal process of braces is usually completed in a single visit. Here are some of the things you can expect during your removal appointment:
- Pliers will be used on your teeth to safely remove the bracket.
- The glue is gently scraped off of the surface of your teeth.
- Your teeth may feel strange after removing the bracket, the wire, and the glue.
Your orthodontist will also fit you for a retainer. You may be given a removable or permanent retainer. While this is being done, you may experience some discomfort, but endure it; this step is almost as vital as actually wearing braces!