Did you know that around four million people in the country wear braces? Dental braces are a great way to straighten crooked teeth, fix jaw misalignment issues, and improve your smile. Many people get braces as a teen rather than as an adult because they can get faster results.
It’s essential to know everything you can before finding the right orthodontics in Los Altos for braces for teens. Educating yourself ensures you’re prepared for the process and can care for your braces properly.
This guide will discuss the ins and outs of braces for teens. We’ll also talk about why Boshken Orthodontics is the best orthodontist in Los Altos.
How Do Braces Work?
Dental braces apply pressure to your oral bone structure and teeth. Over a period of time, the pressure shifts your teeth and bones. Your teeth move into proper alignment.
Most patients will need to have rubber bands called elastics attached to their braces’ upper and lower bands. The elastics help speed up the realignment process.
Some patients might have to wear an external, removable brace that attaches to their braces. The device is called headgear and wraps around their head.
What Are the Common Types of Braces?
There are multiple orthodontic appliances and braces your orthodontist can use to straighten your teeth. The type of braces you get depends on your goals and oral health.
Traditional metal braces are bands and brackets affixed to your teeth with dental cement. The braces are attached with a wire and shift your teeth into alignment.
Ceramic braces are similar to traditional braces in function and design. These braces can get tinted to blend in with the color of your teeth. Because of their customizable color, ceramic braces tend to be less noticeable than metal ones.
Lingual braces get installed to the back of your teeth, making them hard to see. Some patients find lingual braces uncomfortable. However, they’re an excellent option for those who want to straighten their teeth discreetly.
Invisalign® is another discreet alternative to braces. Aligners, or plastic trays, get custom-fitted to your teeth. You’ll switch to different aligners throughout the treatment that brings your jaw and teeth into alignment.
How Long Do I Have to Wear Braces?
How long you have to wear patients depends on various factors. The type of braces and your teeth’s alignment play a part in your treatment length. Some people wear braces for up to two years.
Following the rules and guidelines, your orthodontist gave you will also determine how long you will wear your braces. Failing to comply with their instructions and not showing up to adjustment appointments can lengthen the time.
Are Braces Painful?
Getting braces put on your teeth isn’t painful but it can be uncomfortable. You’ll likely experience some discomfort after you leave your orthodontist’s office. The discomfort comes from the pressure on your jaw and mouth and the brackets and wires irritating your mouth.
Your orthodontist can give you non-toxic, safe wax to cover the bands, wires, and brackets that might irritate you. You can also use over-the-counter pain medication to make you more comfortable.
How Do I Brush My Teeth?
You should brush your teeth according to your regular oral hygiene schedule of twice a day when you wear braces. We recommend bringing a toothbrush with you to lightly brush your teeth after meals. Brushing your teeth can eliminate pesky food particles that can get stuck in your braces.
You should also ensure you floss at least once a day while you have braces. There is special orthodontic floss that’s designed to help you easily floss.
You should also avoid brushing with teeth whitening toothpaste while you wear braces. Teeth whitening toothpaste will whiten your teeth but not the enamel underneath your brackets. When your braces are removed, your teeth might not be the same color.
What Are the Benefits of Braces?
Braces do more than straighten your teeth. While straightening teeth is one of the primary benefits of braces, it’s not the only reason orthodontists recommend them. Braces can help improve your overall health.
Some of the other benefits of braces include:
- Eliminate a speed impediment
- Prevent bone erosion
- Improve digestion
- Help you brush and floss
- Increased confidence
- Prevent gum disease and tooth decay
What Should I Avoid Eating?
One of the most common causes of broken brackets is food. There are certain foods you should avoid eating while you wear braces. The food can damage your braces or get wedged in your teeth, potentially causing gum disease or tooth decay.
Some guidelines to keep in mind when wearing your braces are:
- Don’t eat sticky foods like gum or caramel
- Don’t chew on hard candy or ice
- Avoid drinking high-acidity beverages
- Avoid eating sugary foods
- Cut corn off of corn-on-the-cob instead of biting into it
Establishing a thorough oral hygiene routine will ensure you stay on top of the health of your teeth during this time.
How to Find a Los Altos Orthodontist
Working with an orthodontist you trust and like is essential. Even if your dentist refers you to an orthodontist, you should still make sure that the doctor fits your needs.
Some of the factors that you should consider when choosing an orthodontist include:
- Experience
- Reviews
- Location
- Types of braces treatment options
- Pricing
At Boschken Orthodontics, we put our patients first. We understand that getting braces can be overwhelming and slightly scary to some teenagers. We take the time to go over the entire process with our partners, ensuring that they feel comfortable.
Learn More About Treatment in Los Altos for Braces for Teens
Braces can help you with various oral health issues. They can even help you save money and time in the future by avoiding harmful health conditions. Educating yourself on the right orthodontist and treatment plan in Los Altos for braces for teens is an essential step in the process of getting braces.
Ready to learn more about how you can straighten your teeth and improve your smile? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
