Did you know teeth misalignments can speed up tooth decay and cause speech problems? Fortunately, you can fix malocclusions with adult braces. You can take advantage of Easton free orthodontic consultation to learn if your teeth have improper alignments that need treatment. Read on to find answers for top braces FAQs.
What is the age limit for braces?
Braces can fix teeth alignment issues for individuals regardless of age and background. Orthodontists encourage parents to take their children for checkups as soon as they turn seven. An assessment at that early age can identify problems that could impact their oral health in the future.
Although older patients have less malleable bone and gum tissue, braces can shift the tooth into the correct position. Your orthodontist will choose a suitable treatment strategy after the initial assessment.
What are the tell-tale signs of orthodontic problems?
Discerning malocclusions in your teeth with the naked eye can be challenging. But there are tell-tale signs that your teeth have an improper alignment.
You may have misalignments if the front teeth do not properly overlap over the lower teeth. Malocclusions impact the chewing of food, making you bite your cheeks or tongue frequently. You may also experience soreness on the side of the face or jaw after consuming food.
Since misalignments adjust the jaw joint orientation, you may notice clicking noises when opening or closing your mouth. It could also impact the position of the tongue and affect speech.
Does wearing braces cause pain?
Braces utilize arch wires and brackets to move teeth into position. So, it is normal to experience gum soreness immediately after fitting braces.
But the discomfort usually diminishes several days after placement. Additionally, modern braces are less cumbersome and will not cause pain for the rest of the recovery period.
How long will the braces treatment take?
Every patient undergoing braces treatment has a unique dental profile. Older patients whose jawbone is stiffer and less malleable may require a longer time. Also, the extent of malocclusions will determine the treatment’s duration.
The average duration is between 20 and 24 months. But some patients with minor misalignments may complete treatment in half a year. Severe cases could take more than two years to resolve the malocclusions.
What are the aftercare requirements for braces?
The brackets and arch wires can create spaces and crevices to trap organic compounds after a meal. Aftercare requires strict adherence to dental hygiene to minimize side effects and complications. Since soft tissue is still healing, eliminating bacterial buildup is crucial.
Your orthodontist will encourage you to commit to brushing your teeth after every meal. Flossing your teeth every day will remove organic compounds that could promote decay. After orthodontics treatment, you will learn techniques to keep your teeth thoroughly clean to limit plaque buildup.
You will also attend regular checkups to monitor the treatment’s progress. Your orthodontic specialist will create a schedule for follow-up appointments. If you experience any issues, consult your orthodontist to minimize complications.
To book a free consultation, call McGill Orthodontics or request an appointment using the online scheduling tool today.
