Braces

Braces are a type of orthodontic appliance that is made of metal wires and brackets. Its purpose is to correct crooked or misaligned teeth due to missing teeth or the opposite, crowding.

Most patients who have this are teenagers because their teeth are just starting to develop and will be easier to shift, and kids at this age actually begin to become conscious about their looks. Nevertheless, adults can also use braces only that it will be more challenging to move the teeth at a later age.

The treatment can last for more than twelve months; however, this depends entirely on each patient’s case. On your initial dental check-up, your dentist assesses your condition carefully. During this evaluation, your dentist can determine what type of braces you need and for how long you will wear them.

Traditional braces are made of wires and brackets. The dentist attaches the brackets on each tooth involved in the treatment. Then, they insert the wire on each bracket to connect all of them. Gradually, the wire shifts the teeth to their correct position.

It may hurt during the earlier part of the treatment, which is good, so you know it is taking effect. However, you will get used to it sooner, and you will only feel movement without discomfort. Let your dentist in Waterloo know about your apprehensions about the procedure before going for it.

History

According to the American Association of Orthodontists [AAO], archaeologists discovered Greek and Etruscan dental appliances that indicate humans began practicing orthodontics as early as 1000 B.C. The Smithsonian Institute cites Edward Angle, founder the Angle School of Orthodontia in 1900, as the father of modern orthodontics. This American dentist’s work included establishing orthodontics as a dental specialty and classifying many teeth and jaw abnormalities. Angle also innovated the procedures and devices used to help correct such issues.

Types

Orthodontists specialize in correcting a variety of dental problems. Some of the issues revised by orthodontic procedures include: difficulty chewing, crowding of teeth, missing teeth, speech difficulties, protruding teeth, irregular bite and facial imbalances.

Methods

The most common form of orthodontic treatment is the installation of dental braces that help straighten teeth, remove gaps, and correct overbites. Braces are often used in conjunction with other orthodontic appliances such as headgear and expansion appliances to influence the growth of teeth in younger patients. Retainers are often worn to help ensure teeth remain in their new position after braces have been removed. The American Dental Association states that in some cases, orthodontists may choose to use surgery to modify the teeth and jaw.

Time Frame

We suggest that children have their first orthodontic consultation no later than 7 years of age. While many people have corrective orthodontic procedures done early in their lives, it is not uncommon for adults and even seniors to undergo orthodontic treatments. Depending on the specific problems of the patient and the methods used to correct them, orthodontic treatments can last as few as six months but may take three years or more to complete in severe cases.

Considerations

Straight teeth are easier to keep clean and are more effective in biting, chewing, and speaking than teeth with abnormalities. People who have had orthodontic treatments also report having fewer dental complications later in life.