5 Things To Know Before Getting Braces
With adult orthodontics becoming more popular in recent years and many parents now choosing for their children to have private orthodontic treatment, it’s not surprising that there’s far more people researching into both the benefits and treatment options for getting their teeth straightened. Long gone are the days of dentist referrals being the main way for you to see an orthodontist and private referrals are booming. As such, we wanted to bring you some quick facts based on 5 things we feel you need to know before getting braces, or whilst you’re in the process of considering treatment. Whether you’re currently looking for an orthodontist in London or are still trying to make a decision as to whether braces are right for you, why not have a read?
1. There Is No Age Limit For Getting Braces
Whilst once upon a time, it was generally assumed that only teenagers had braces on their teeth, there really is no age limit for getting braces and the number of adults choosing to have orthodontic treatment is increasing year on year. So long as you’ve got healthy teeth and gums, there really is no age limit for having treatment and it’s certainly not uncommon to see older adults who are considering treatment. There are benefits to having your teeth straightened at any age so don’t for a moment ever think that age could be an issue!
Perhaps you didn’t fancy being a metal mouth as a teen but as you’ve got older, you really wish you had taken the opportunity to have braces years ago! On the other hand, maybe you weren’t eligible for NHS treatment but have always disliked your smile and want to boost your confidence by getting your teeth straightened. Whatever your age and whatever the reason you’re considering treatment, go for it!
2. Your Bite Is As Important As The Aesthetics Of Your Smile
Braces don’t just make your teeth look nice and pretty but they also help to ensure your top and bottom teeth meet properly and that your bite is corrected where necessary. A bad bite can cause jaw pain or for your jaw to click as well as numerous other problems and that’s why, even though you may feel your teeth are straight, there’s often still work to be done!
3. There’s Different Types Of Braces Available
Whilst you may decide to go down the route of traditional metal braces, they’re by no means the only option and here at Queens Gate Orthodontics, we offer treatment options including lingual braces and Invisalign as well as clear fixed braces. Invisalign, as an example, uses a series of clear aligners to straighten your teeth without the need for any brackets or wires to be fitted to your teeth at all. That way, your friends needn’t even know you’re wearing braces if you don’t want them to. Similarly, lingual braces are fitted behind your teeth as opposed to on the front so are completely out of sight to most people!
Speak with your orthodontist about the most suitable type of brace to achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of and always remember that there’s usually a number of options and ways to complete treatment.
4. You May Need To Wear Elastic Bands
If you’ve decided to go down the route of fixed braces, there’s a good chance you’ll need to wear elastic bands as part of your treatment! These add the extra forces which your braces need to move your teeth into their final positions and, as such, wearing them as instructed by your orthodontist is absolutely essential. Whilst you may not initially be too keen on the thought, you’ll get used to them in no time at all and forget they’re even there. They’re an important part to your treatment and if you don’t wear them as instructed, your treatment will end up taking longer.
5. You’ll Need To Wear A Retainer After Your Braces Come Off
If you’re investing hard earned cash into your smile, the last thing you want is for your teeth to move back to their original positions once you’ve got your braces off. Your orthodontist will provide you with a retainer once your braces come off to ensure your teeth remain straight, however you need to discipline yourself and make sure you wear it as instructed. Again, you’ll hardly notice you’re wearing your retainers and before long, remembering to wear them will become part of your daily routine.
