Information For Potential Orthodontic Patients

Posted on: 14 May 2019

Orthodontic treatments can be a necessary cosmetic procedure for individuals that want to have a straight smile. Due to the fact that orthodontic treatments can be among the most major procedures dental patients may go through, it can be important to be as informed as possible before starting.

How Noticeable Will The Braces Be To Other People?

You might assume that a set of braces will always be a highly noticeable part of your mouth. While it is true that metal braces can be among the least discrete options for individuals needing orthodontic treatments, there are many other options that may allow them to undergo these treatments while minimizing the cosmetic impacts of their braces. This can include the use of clear retainers, plastic braces, and other options that will be difficult for other people to notice when you smile. If discretion is a key priority for you, it is important to let your orthodontist know so that they can provide you with information about their range of discrete straightening options.

Is There An Age That Is Best For Braces?

Typically, individuals will find that some of the best results for orthodontic treatments can be achieved during the young adult phase of life. During this period, a person's full set of adult teeth have developed, but the mouth is still growing and developing. As a result, it may be easier for the position of the teeth to be adjusted, which can lead to faster results for the patient. However, individuals of almost any age will be able to receive the benefits of orthodontic treatment as long as their teeth and gums are healthy enough. This can be excellent news for adults that may not have had the opportunity to undergo orthodontic treatments when they were younger as well as for adults that may have found their teeth have shifted over the years.

What Types Of Issues Can Arise With The Braces?

For patients that have recently started to wear braces, it is important to be aware of and prepared for some of the issues that may develop. One of the most common will be a broken wire or loose anchor. When these issues arise, you will want to visit your orthodontist as quickly as possible so that the damage will not impact the effectiveness of your treatment. Unfortunately, it may be up to a couple of days before you can have the damage repaired. If this is the case, you can use dental wax to cover any sharp points that may be causing discomfort or cutting into your mouth.

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