Orthodontic braces are a popular dental treatment that corrects misaligned or crowded teeth, bite problems, and jaw misalignment. Brackets are attached to the teeth, and wires and bands link them. The brackets are usually made of metal but can also be made of ceramic or clear materials to make them less visible. Some types involve using clear and removable aligners.
Find out everything you need to know about braces in this article.
An Introduction to Dental Braces
Braces can help people improve facial appearance, dental maintenance, and oral health. The following are some vital pieces of information regarding braces:
Age Limit
The age restriction for dental braces is flexible, depending on each person’s needs. Generally, orthodontic treatment can be given to anybody, provided that all their permanent teeth have appeared between 13 to 14 years of age. Furthermore, a patient must have healthy teeth, gums, and supporting bone structures. The type of braces used also determines the best time for an individual to use them.
For example, a nine-year-old can use traditional metal braces if the treatment is essential to fix serious orthodontic issues. Generally, the best candidate for braces are people who are 18 and above.
Age Ranges
Braces can fix dental issues at any age, and the recommended age range for braces can vary. Nevertheless, particular age ranges are more common for braces treatment. Here are some general guidelines for braces at various age ranges:
Children
Orthodontic treatment for children often starts around age 7, when their permanent teeth start developing. You can visit a pediatric dental office in Livingston; the orthodontist can detect possible teeth, jaw, and bite alignment issues at this age. If problems are caught early and corrected with braces, they are less likely to get worse and require less time in braces overall.
Teenagers
This is the most common age range for orthodontic treatment with braces. By this time, all or the majority of the permanent teeth have appeared, and the jaw has stopped growing, making it easier to fix any issues with teeth alignment and bite. Also, teenagers may be more self-conscious about their looks, so less noticeable braces, such as clear or ceramic braces, may be preferred.
Adults
Orthodontic treatment with braces is becoming progressively well-known among adults. Improving dental health and obtaining a straighter smile is never too late. Adults might have different concerns, like the time needed for treatment, the cost, and the visibility of the braces. Invisalign or clear braces might be preferred by adults who want to attain straighter teeth without the appearance of traditional metal braces. You may click here for more information about braces.
Different Kinds of Braces
Orthodontists at the dental office in Livingston use several different braces treatment methods to fix dental problems. These are a few examples of the most common:
- Traditional metal braces: These are metal brackets and wires attached to the teeth. They are the most common braces and work for correcting several dental problems.
- Ceramic braces: These are similar to traditional metal braces, but the brackets are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic material, making them less obvious. However, they can be more fragile and may require more careful cleaning.
- Lingual braces: This is an alternative to visible metal braces, with brackets and wires set behind the teeth. They are a good option for persons who want to align their teeth discreetly, but they could be more challenging to clean and adjust.
- Invisalign: This is a clear, personalized aligner worn over the teeth to gradually move them into the right position. Invisalign is nearly invisible and removable for eating, brushing, and flossing.
Early Indications of Orthodontic Problems
Early detection is essential for successful treatment. Below are some common indicators of orthodontic problems that an orthodontist need to address:
- Crowded or misaligned teeth
- Bite problems
- Mouth breathing
- Difficulty with speech
- Thumb sucking
- Early loss of baby teeth
If you have any of these signs, it’s time to see an orthodontist to figure out if you need orthodontic treatment. Early intervention can lead to less invasive and more effective treatment alternatives.
Bottom Line
Orthodontic treatment with braces can improve dental health, increase confidence, and lead to a healthier smile. The suitable treatment plan for each patient can only be determined after consultation with an orthodontist. Braces can provide long-lasting outcomes and a straighter, brilliant smile with proper care and maintenance.
