If you are having self esteem issues because you have crooked or misaligned teeth, you ought to visit an orthodontic to correct the problem. The most common solution for you will be to get braces. Here are some facts that will make you more comfortable when going to an orthodontist for braces.
Reasons for braces
- Crooked teeth or misaligned teeth that interfere with your bite and cause jaw problems, chipped teeth and excessive tooth wear
- A large mouth that creates large spaces between teeth or a small mouth that causes crowding of teeth
- Straighten of teeth to create more even-looking teeth
Why teeth become crooked
Your teeth may be misaligned or crooked due to environmental or hereditary reasons. You could have crooked teeth because you sucked your thumb or engaged in tongue thrusting as a child. Gum disease, cavities and premature loss of baby teeth also cause crooked teeth. Accidents on your jaw could also cause your teeth to get out of line. You could also get crooked teeth if it runs in your family.
Treatment
An orthodontist will go through a number of stages when fixing braces to your mouth. First, your teeth will be cleaned. Then the dentist will use an appliance to make space in your mouth. For instance, palatal expanders will be used to increase the width of your palate whereas lingual bars to expand your lower jaw.
The next stage is referred to as the corrective stage. This is where braces are fixed on your teeth. The brace has several brackets. These little pieces of square shaped metal are glued to the teeth. The fitting of braces involves connecting the brackets using a piece of wire that is fastened by small elastic bands.
Your teeth will be straightened and the crookedness or malocclusions corrected in the course of time. The period it takes for braces to correct your bite depends on how faithful you use them and care for them and also on the severity of your condition.
The final stage involves removing the braces. Your teeth will be monitored using a retainer—a removable or fixed brace—and regular visits to your orthodontist.
Caring for your braces
There are a wide variety of tooth brushes used for cleaning braces. These include power, sonic and electric brushes. Your orthodontist will advise you on the kind to use for cleaning your braces. Brush 2-3 times a day. You should brush in a back-forth movement at 45 degrees. You should also clean between your teeth with floss. You may also be asked to use mouth wash to keep away plaque and prevent gingivitis (an inflammation of gums).
If you're considering your need for braces, talk to dental clinics such as Martin Jest Dental Surgery to learn more.
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