How to Wear Braces?
Braces are one of the basic steps in orthodontic treatment and are used to ensure proper alignment of the teeth and to correct malformations in the jaw structure. This procedure is carried out in several steps and is usually performed by an orthodontist. First, the patient’s dentition is examined in detail and the necessary measurements are taken. X-rays of the teeth are taken and intraoral photographs are taken for a comprehensive evaluation. This stage is critical for creating the treatment plan. Next, a special adhesive is applied to the surface of the teeth and small metal or ceramic pieces called brackets are placed on the teeth. The brackets are necessary to secure the braces. Once the brackets are in place, the orthodontist threads the braces through the brackets and begins to pull the teeth into the desired position by tightening the wires. The wires used in this process are usually flexible and allow the teeth to move over time. The process of wearing braces is usually painless, but there may be a slight feeling of pressure and discomfort in the teeth and jaw muscles after the procedure. This discomfort subsides within a few days and patients get used to the treatment process. Braces are of great importance both aesthetically and functionally. Properly aligned teeth provide a more attractive smile and contribute to improved chewing and speech functions. The duration of treatment may vary depending on the patient’s tooth structure and treatment requirements. This period varies between 18-24 months on average and the patient’s compliance with the treatment directly affects the success of this process.
Does Getting Braces Cause Pain?
Getting braces is not usually considered a painful procedure. However, slight discomfort and pressure may be felt when the braces are first fitted or during the adjustment of the wires. This discomfort is caused by the process of the teeth and jaw muscles adapting to the new situation and usually subsides within a few days. The pain and sensitivity felt in the first few days can be alleviated by eating soft foods and using pain medication when necessary. During the braces fitting process, the orthodontist works carefully as he or she places the brackets over the teeth and tightens the wires. Therefore, the vast majority of patients do not feel any significant pain during the procedure. Later in the treatment process, when the braces need to be adjusted regularly, similar discomfort may be experienced, but this is temporary and part of the treatment. It usually takes a few weeks for patients to get used to their braces and pain levels are usually minimal throughout the treatment process.
What Does Braces Treatment Do?
Braces treatment is an orthodontic treatment method applied to ensure proper alignment of the teeth and to correct disorders in the jaw structure. This treatment is an effective solution for correcting crooked or misaligned teeth, placing the teeth in the correct position and eliminating problems in the jaw closure. Braces treatment provides great benefits both aesthetically and functionally. Aesthetically, properly aligned teeth offer a more attractive and confident smile. Functionally, properly aligned teeth make chewing and speaking more comfortable, make teeth cleaning easier and reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, properly aligned teeth can help prevent jaw joint problems and improve overall oral health. Braces treatment can be applied in adulthood as well as in childhood and can give successful results at any age.
How Does Braces Treatment Work?
Braces treatment is a process that takes place in several steps, and each step is carefully planned and executed. The first step is to evaluate the patient’s dentition and jaw structure. This evaluation starts with taking X-rays of the teeth, taking intraoral photographs and making detailed measurements. Using this data, the orthodontist creates a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs. In the second step, the surface of the teeth is cleaned and small metal or ceramic pieces called brackets are attached to the teeth with a special adhesive. The brackets are needed to secure the braces and are carefully placed on each tooth. Once the brackets are in place, the braces are threaded through the brackets and the wires are tightened to pull the teeth into the desired position. The wires used at this stage are flexible and allow the teeth to move over time. Throughout the treatment process, the orthodontist checks at regular intervals and adjusts the braces to ensure that the teeth are aligned correctly. The duration of treatment varies depending on the patient’s tooth structure and treatment requirements, but usually lasts between 18-24 months.
How to Wear Braces in Children?
Braces in children are usually performed in a similar way to the procedure for adults. First, the orthodontist assesses the child’s dentition and jaw structure. This evaluation starts with taking X-rays of the teeth, taking intraoral photographs and making the necessary measurements. After creating a treatment plan suitable for the child’s dental structure, the surface of the teeth is cleaned and small metal or ceramic pieces called brackets are attached to the teeth. These brackets are necessary for fixing the braces. The braces are passed through the brackets and compressed to pull the teeth into the desired position. In children, the process of wearing braces is usually painless and children quickly adapt to the treatment process. There may be a slight feeling of discomfort and pressure in the first few days, but this is temporary and subsides within a few days. The duration of treatment varies depending on the child’s tooth structure and treatment needs, but usually lasts between 18-24 months. During the treatment process, it is important that children go to orthodontist visits regularly and do not neglect the care of their braces.
Caring for Teeth with Braces
The care of teeth with braces is very important for the success of the treatment process. While braces ensure proper alignment of the teeth, they also require extra attention to oral hygiene. Braces and brackets can create favorable areas for food debris and plaque to accumulate, so regular and careful cleaning is essential. Here’s how to care for teeth with braces:
- Regular brushing: Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. During brushing, the area around braces and brackets should be carefully cleaned.
- Flossing: Floss or interdental brushes specially made for braces should be used to clean between the teeth. This helps to remove plaque and food debris.
- Mouthwash It is possible to reduce bacteria in the mouth and prevent plaque formation by using antibacterial mouthwashes.
- Regular check-ups: It is important to attend check-up appointments at the intervals recommended by your orthodontist to monitor the condition of the braces and the progress of the treatment process.
- Diet: Avoid hard and sticky foods to prevent damage to braces and brackets. Soft foods should be preferred.
Curiosities About Braces Treatment
Questions about braces are usually related to the duration of treatment, pain, maintenance and cost. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers:
- Treatment duration: The duration of braces treatment varies depending on the patient’s tooth structure and treatment requirements. On average, treatment can last between 18-24 months.
- Pain conditions: Braces are usually not painful, but there may be slight discomfort in the first few days. This discomfort subsides within a few days.
- Care Caring for teeth with braces is critical to the success of the treatment process. Teeth should be brushed regularly, flossed and cleaned with mouthwash. Also, hard and sticky foods should be avoided.
- Cost: The cost of braces treatment may vary depending on the materials used, the duration of treatment and the location of the clinic. You can contact your orthodontist for detailed information about the cost.