How to know when should you get braces? When you really need braces? Because whether to get braces or not is a very important decision that is influenced by the cost of braces, the time of braces and other factors. Therefore, Bally Dental would like to send readers the article “When should we get braces? Some signs to recognize below!
When should you get braces?
Braces, also known as orthodontics, are a dental treatment that uses devices such as brackets, wires and other appliances to adjust the position of the teeth and jaws. The goal of braces is to improve the bite function, aesthetics of the teeth and ensure that the teeth develop in the correct position.
Common cases of teeth that need braces include deviations in the position and function of the teeth and jaws. Below are common dental conditions that experts recommend braces for:
Protruding teeth
Protruding teeth (also known as buck teeth or deep bite) is a condition in which the upper front teeth protrude too far forward compared to the lower front teeth. This is a common type of bite misalignment that can cause many problems with the aesthetics and function of the teeth.
- Aesthetics: Protruding teeth greatly affect the aesthetics of the face, especially when viewed from the side and front. People with protruding teeth often have an upper jaw that protrudes forward, causing an imbalance face.
- Chewing function: Protruding teeth can cause difficulty in chewing, because the teeth do not fit together properly.
- Affect the jawbone and temporomandibular joint: Long-term protruding teeth can lead to problems with the jawbone and temporomandibular joint, causing headaches, jaw pain and other related problems.
Teeth spacing
Teeth spacing is a condition where there are larger than normal gaps between the teeth, causing the teeth to not fit together properly. This is a common problem in dentistry and can affect both the aesthetics and function of the teeth.
- Aesthetics: Teeth spacing affects the aesthetics of the smile and face, making many people feel less confident.
- Function: Gaps between teeth are prone to food getting stuck, making it difficult to clean teeth and increasing the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis.
- Pronunciation: Teeth spacing can affect pronunciation, causing problems in communication.
Crooked and crowded teeth
Crowded and crooked teeth are a condition in which the teeth do not grow in a straight line but overlap and are out of position with each other. This is a common type of malocclusion and can cause many aesthetic and functional problems of the teeth.
- Aesthetics: Crooked and crowded teeth affect the aesthetics of the smile and face, making many people feel self-conscious.
- Function: Teeth that are not aligned make it difficult to chew, reduce the effectiveness of chewing and can lead to jaw fatigue, causing loss of appetite.
- Oral hygiene: Crowded teeth are difficult to clean, easily accumulate plaque and food, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis.
Open bite
An open bite is a condition in which the upper and lower front teeth do not touch each other when the mouth is closed, creating a gap between the two jaws. This is a type of malocclusion that can affect both the aesthetics and function of the teeth.
- Aesthetics: Open bite affects the aesthetics of the smile and face, making many people feel insecure.
- Chewing function: Open bite makes it difficult to bite and chew food, reducing the efficiency of eating and drinking.
- Pronunciation: This condition can also affect pronunciation, causing difficulties in communication.
Appropriate time for braces
Braces can be performed at many different ages, but there are times that are considered ideal to achieve the best results. Below are the appropriate times for braces:
Age 7-10
This age is a good time for dentists to check the development of teeth and jaws. If bite problems are detected early, dentists can intervene promptly to adjust the direction of tooth and jaw development.
Dentists can use temporary orthodontic appliances to effectively correct problems such as crooked teeth or uneven jaws at this age.
Age 11-14
This is the ideal time to start fixed braces, because at this time most permanent teeth have fully grown and the jawbone is still developing, making it easier to adjust.
Age 15-18
This is the final stage of development, so orthodontics can be more complete and stable. Braces at this stage are still very effective, although the jawbone is harder than in the previous stage.
Age 18 and up
Braces in adulthood are becoming more popular. Although the jawbone is fully developed and is no longer as flexible as in children, modern technology still allows for effective teeth adjustment in adults. However, the time and cost of braces may be higher.
In adulthood, people can choose a variety of cosmetic braces such as clear braces (Invisalign) or lingual braces to minimize the impact on aesthetics during treatment.
See more: What are braces? 3+ methods of braces using braces
Benefits of braces
- A more beautiful smile: Even teeth and a standard bite make the smile more beautiful and confident.
- Harmonious face: Correcting problems with bite and tooth structure makes the face more balanced and harmonious.
- Chewing efficiency: Even teeth and a correct bite help improve chewing function, making the food digestion process more effective.
- Reduce jaw fatigue: When teeth and bite are adjusted correctly, the risk of jaw fatigue and pain is reduced.
- Reduce plaque and tooth decay: Even teeth make oral hygiene easier, reducing the risk of diseases such as tooth decay and gingivitis.
- Prevent periodontal disease: A standard bite and even teeth help protect the gums and prevent periodontal disease.
- Correct pronunciation: Even teeth and a correct bite help improve pronunciation, avoiding problems such as lisping or difficulty in pronunciation.
- Reduce pressure on the temporomandibular joint: Braces help correct the bite, reduce pressure on the temporomandibular joint and prevent problems such as headaches and jaw pain.
Some notes when wearing braces
Braces are a process that requires patience and careful care. Here are some important notes when wearing braces to ensure effectiveness and avoid unwanted problems:
Oral hygiene
- Brush your teeth thoroughly: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is crucial, but it becomes even more important when you have braces. It’s recommended to brush after every meal to effectively remove plaque and food particles that can easily get trapped in and around your braces. Pay extra attention to the areas around the brackets and wires, where food can accumulate and plaque can form. Thorough brushing helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and staining, ensuring that your teeth remain healthy throughout your treatment. Take your time when brushing, and make sure to cover all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces.
- Use a special toothbrush: Regular toothbrushes may not be sufficient to clean all the areas around your braces. To enhance your cleaning routine, use a special orthodontic toothbrush designed for braces, or an interdental brush that can reach between the wires and brackets. An interdental brush is small and tapered, making it ideal for cleaning those hard-to-reach areas that a regular toothbrush might miss. Additionally, a braces-specific toothbrush often has a V-shaped bristle design, which allows for better cleaning around the brackets and along the gum line. Using these specialized tools helps ensure that your teeth and braces are thoroughly cleaned, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and other oral health issues.
- Incorporate mouthwash into your routine: In addition to brushing and using special toothbrushes, incorporating a fluoride mouthwash into your daily routine is highly beneficial. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel, making your teeth more resistant to decay and cavities, which is especially important when you have braces. Rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash after brushing and flossing can reach areas that may be missed by brushing alone, providing an additional layer of protection. The mouthwash can also help to reduce bacteria in your mouth, freshen your breath, and keep your gums healthy. Regular use of a fluoride mouthwash supports your overall oral health and enhances the effectiveness of your orthodontic care.
Diet
- Avoid hard foods: Limit eating hard foods like hard candy, ice, or nuts to avoid breaking or damaging your braces.
- Avoid sticky foods: Avoid sticky foods like gum, caramel, and gummy candies because they can get stuck in your braces and are difficult to clean.
- Cut foods into small pieces: Cut foods into small pieces to make them easier to chew and avoid putting pressure on your braces.
Regular check-ups
- Regularly visit the dentist: Follow your regular check-up appointments with your dentist to adjust your braces and check your oral health to avoid long-term ineffective braces.
- Report a problem: If you experience any problems such as pain, loose braces, or loose wires, contact your dentist immediately.
- Do not adjust yourself: Do not adjust your braces or wires yourself if you have problems, as this can make your teeth worse.
