San Clemente Orthodontics Treatment: Braces

Pediatric

If you or your child have crooked teeth, you may be wondering how braces can help! The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children, regardless of their orthodontic progression, receive an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early examination allows orthodontists to determine the best time for orthodontic treatment, and if necessary, to begin.
Early interceptive orthodontic therapy can minimize the need for more complex treatment in the future.

Adolescent

By the time children reach adolescence, their permanent teeth are either in, or are erupting. Teenagers jaw bones are almost finished growing, making this an ideal time to correct their teeth.
People whose teeth are crooked or misaligned are often self conscious about their appearance. By starting early, you can give your child a healthy smile with a lifetime of benefits. Seeing our patients grow and mature into confident young adults is one of our greatest rewards.

Adult

No matter what your age, appearance is an important aspect of your life. You are never too old for orthodontic treatment. In fact, thirty percent of our patients are adults.
Many adults seek orthodontic treatment not just for the sake of their smiles, but to improve the function of their bite.
Adult orthodontics are more convenient and comfortable than ever. Technological advancements have made adulthood a great time to achieve the smile you have always wanted.
A patient often goes to an orthodontist due to concerns about misaligned teeth or other dental issues. An orthodontist may suggest braces as a way to correct the problem. Braces can be a helpful way to straighten teeth, increase smile confidence, and make chewing more efficient. Depending on the severity of the misalignment, a patient may have to keep them on for months or up to a few years. During the consultation, a patient may have questions about cleaning, the types of braces, whether they hurt, and how often check-ups are needed.

Q: How may having braces change how I clean my teeth?

A: Once braces are put on, there are certain things the patient must remember about cleaning his or her teeth. It is important to clean teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day. Use toothpaste that has fluoride, as this can help prevent cavities from developing. Try to avoid food that contains lots of sugar, which can increase bacteria growth in your mouth, leading to plaque build-up and cavities. Food options that are hard, sticky or mushy can get stuck in your braces. You may have to take extra time to get these food particles out.

Q: Are braces painful?

A: Braces do not often cause pain. Patients who just had braces put on may need several days to get used to the feeling of having them on their teeth. Braces can feel tight and uncomfortable in the couple days after a tightening at the orthodontist, but this pressure is only temporary as your mouth adjusts to the new setting.

Q: How many types of braces are there?

A: An orthodontist may use braces as a way to improve the appearance and feel of your smile. There are many types of braces to pick from, including ceramic, clear, lingual, invisible, self-ligating, and traditional metal braces. How long a person has to wear braces varies, but can take anywhere from as little as six months to three years.

Q: Are braces going to interfere with activities or sports?

A: Whether you play an instrument or are involved in sports, there may be some acclimation when you initially get your braces. However, braces should not stop you from participating in the hobbies you enjoy. The only thing to consider is when you play contact sports, is that injuries to the mouth can be particularly painful when wearing braces. It is recommended that you use a mouthguard to protect yourself.

Q: If I get braces, will this change how often I see a dentist?

A: Patients with braces still need to visit their dentist regularly. The average person should see the dentist once or twice per year, but a patient with braces may want to go more often. While this may not sound so much fun, the intention is to help get food particles out from between your braces, wiring, and brackets. If food material stays there for too long, it can lead to problems like gum disease, gingivitis, and cavities. 
To see how braces can help change your life, contact a San Clemente, California Orthodontist from John Redmond Orthodontics!