Dental Braces aren’t just for teens – it’s never too late to enhance your oral health and improve your smile. Nearly 1 million people in the USA who are older than 18 wear dental braces to improve their smile. Your dental braces specialist in Chandler AZ may assist you in determining whether orthodontic treatment is the right option for you. It is always recommended that you receive treatment from an orthodontist, an expert in diagnosing, avoiding and treating poor alignment of your teeth.
Dental Braces – Is it really required for adults?
Some individuals never received orthodontic treatment as a child to improve problems such as crooked teeth, bite issues, misalignment of jaw or jaw joint disorders. If these problems are not treated at the earliest it may lead to tooth decay, gum disease, headaches, earaches, speaking, chewing and biting problems.
Is the treatment of orthodontic different for adults?
Braces can offer adults the same benefits children get. However, treatment might take more time for adults when compared to children. Generally, adults wear dental braces for about 18 months to 3 years. Much like children, adults might need to wear a retainer to keep up the results of treatment after dental braces are removed.
Dental Braces – Cost?
The cost of dental braces in Chandler AZ may vary depending on the type of braces that are involved in treatment. You can ask your dentist for a pre-treatment estimation of your dental plan so you can plan and prepare yourself for the procedure. Check with your dental plan to see if it covers orthodontic treatment for adults.
How do I know if I need dental braces?
Consult your dentist and have an assessment to know whether you are a candidate for dental braces. With regards to the difficulty that is involved in your case your dental professional may perform orthodontic work or refer you to an orthodontist – a dental professional who is an expert in the analysis, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and cosmetic irregularities.
The consultation allows you to ask questions about orthodontic treatment:
- What are the expenses involved?
- How will the dental braces fix my problem?
- Time for the treatment?
- Will I be able to schedule appointments at suitable times?
You will certainly experience some amount of pain or difficulty while speaking or eating when you first receive your braces. While you are in braces make sure you maintain a good oral hygiene so that your teeth and braces are clean. If you wear cemented, non-removable dental braces, food, and plaque can get stuck between the teeth. In order to reduce your risk of cavities, follow a routine of cleaning your teeth by brushing, flossing and rinsing, and reduce intake of sweets and sugars.
Which foods must I avoid?
It’s wise to avoid foods that can cause damage to dental braces. Avoid hard foods such as candy, uncooked carrots, popcorn, nuts, and smashed ice. Other food to stay away from includes sticky foods such as gum, caramel, and taffy. These foods can get trapped between teeth and band wires which can loosen brackets and bands. If in case the braces are damaged, treatment may be prolonged.
Note: Visiting an orthodontist is not a replacement for regular dental checkups. You need to visit your general dentist for routine checkups and cleanings.