5 Things to Know About Bracket Teeth Braces for Children at IVANOV Orthodontics
Braces for Children
Perhaps you just visited your dentist and you heard the words, “It’s time to see an orthodontist”, or you looked over at your growing child and he or she is no longer able to close their mouth properly. Visiting an orthodontist does not have to be a scary experience, nor does it have to mean that it will be an expensive time in your family’s life. Let’s take a little time to understand what it means for your child to have braces and we’ll break down the benefits of orthodontia. We’ll also talk a little bit about how to make braces affordable for your child.
Does Your Child Need Bracket Braces for Kids?
We all know that a smile is contagious. I’m sure we can all recall instances when we smiled at someone and that person smiled back at us and we felt that good energy transfer. Some of the benefits of an attractive smile are:
- Confidence and feeling good
Without a doubt, confidence is recognized to be an important factor for success these days. Smart parents like you recognize when their child is being bullied in school or teased about their unattractive smile (kids are kids and we all have been there). They notice when their child is not smiling in photos or is hiding their smile with a hand. The truth is that bullying is increasing and even transferring to social media platforms.
For all parents, their children are beautiful but the fact is that some kids do need help at early ages so that they can grow to their fullest potential. Most proactive parents realize the value of their child’s growth years and the benefit of confidence before any bullying or teasing occurs because of crooked/uneven teeth.
Studies have shown that smiling makes our body release natural neurotransmitters that make our body relax and feel good; some of those neurotransmitters are dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. They influence the natural brain activity and help in removing stress and anxiety without any non-natural side effects. A really good laugh and a smile can have the same effect as working out, running, and swimming. Studies have shown that people who smile are perceived as more confident, extroverted, and generous, which are characteristics of successful people we see on TV.
Smiling also makes people so much more comfortable in an awkward situation and a nice smile can help us shake off any uncertainty and make the body feel more comfortable. A confident smile helps us to be recognized as better leaders. Most likely you have noticed by now that celebrities and famous people on TV smile and they smile often and they are successful and part of their success is that inherited radiant smile.
- Health
This one is big. People nowadays live longer and are expected to live even longer so we need to keep our teeth for a long time and do everything possible to maintain them. We don’t want to be going to bed and waking up with our teeth next to us in a glass of water. The sooner we start taking care of our teeth, the longer we will have them so that we can eat, chew, and enjoy the foods that we like. Crooked teeth, spaced teeth, and teeth that don’t bite properly (such as those who have a crossbite or teeth that erupt in the wrong direction, etc.) create pockets that are harder to clean, floss, and maintain properly.
In those pockets, dental plaque tends to stick like in a spider web. Imagine food and bacteria getting entangled to your tooth like a fly. We all are familiar with terms such as cavities, gum disease, and bone disease caused by bacteria in the retained plaque. Making the teeth straight will allow for easier teeth cleaning and removing of the sticky plaque.
The same goes with spacing between teeth. A common misconception is that if I have a space then I don’t have to brush and floss my teeth in between there. However, there is still plaque accumulation on the side of the teeth next to the spacing so those areas are harder to clean. Teeth that do not bite properly also present difficulty in brushing and flossing efficiently. By straightening your teeth, you not only get straighter teeth but also make it easier to maintain your teeth for a longer period of time. The bottom line is that straighter teeth are healthier teeth.
And, when teeth are straight and properly aligned, they wear correctly. Teeth that do not meet properly are ones that will wear prematurely and lead to enamel loss. That enamel is what protects your teeth so losing it will lead to more cavities, and possibly even tooth loss. It is far easier to keep your teeth clean and healthy than it is to have to get implants or dentures later in life.
- Meaningful social relationships
People with nice smiles appear more approachable. A smile is an inviting facial expression and studies have shown that people who smile are more frequently engaged socially and other people are willing to interact and talk with them. Studies also have shown that people who smile are viewed as more trustworthy. A smile increases a willingness to trust a person by about 10%.
Of course, one of the best ways to cover a social mishap is by a nice, genuine smile regardless if it’s at work, at school, or among new friends. Another study shows that people who have broken the rules are shown more leniency if they smile afterwards. A smile is a very important social asset and it is contagious. Why don’t you try smiling at strangers on the way to work? You’ll see that most of them will smile back at you.
- More attractive looks
Studies show that a nice smile makes us more attractive. A smile suggests that a person is approachable, empathetic, and easy-going. In a recent study where the subjects previously had crooked teeth, uneven smiles, or discolored teeth, results showed that after receiving a new smile people acquired a wide range of benefits. Their attractiveness increased by 22% compared to the pre-smile improvement assessment. People were also viewed as 13% more successful in their careers because of their smile. In addition, there were viewed as 11% more interesting and there was a perception of increased wealth by 17%. Moreover, they were viewed as 19% more popular in their interaction with the opposite sex. A different study showed that 96% of adults believe that a nice smile makes a person more attractive to the opposite sex.
- Security
It’s always been known that earning a higher income allows for a greater sense of security and allows you not to worry about finding money for rent or for your children’s education.
Economists have linked a nice smile to making more money. Unfortunately, we live in a society in which we are judged by our appearance. And sometimes we only have 30 seconds to a minute to make an impression and hopefully it is a good one. A study has shown that physically attractive people have an advantage over average looking people when it comes to being hired for a job and the salary that they earn. Another study reported that physically attractive people earn up to 12% more income than average-looking people.
Who Are The Children Who Would Require Braces for Kids More Than Others?
Let’s take a look at a few reasons children might need braces either sooner or with more need than others.
- Health
Naturally, we’re busy parents and adults, and often we don’t have the time to monitor our children’s oral hygiene 24/7. Crooked, gaped, and malpositioned teeth create pockets that are harder to clean properly through brushing and flossing. When we eat sugar and other foods and drinks, sticky bacterial plaque releases acids that attack teeth enamel and gums. This plaque keeps the bacterial acids next to your teeth enamel and gums where they can be destructive and cause cavities and gum disease.
A cavity is a hole in your tooth full of bacteria and when it gets bigger and deeper it can cause sensitivity and pain, leading ultimately to the death of your tooth and the need for a root canal or even a tooth extraction.
Gum disease starts with gingivitis where the gums are red and swollen and they also bleed easily. If gingivitis progresses further, periodontitis can develop and lead to gum tissue damage and breakdown. The bacterial sticky plaque then can destroy the remaining bone support leading ultimately, if left untreated, to a very loose tooth or, even worse, tooth loss.
Recent health studies have found links between periodontal disease and the following systemic health problems:
Heart disease – people with periodontal disease are more likely to have poor heart health. Studies on the link between periodontal disease and heart disease date back to at least 2009. Some of the contributing factors could be the bacteria and chronic inflammation escaping into the blood and being circulated throughout the body.
Diabetes – inflammation could be partially responsible for the link between periodontal disease and diabetes. The bottom line is if you have diabetes, you are at an even higher risk of developing periodontal disease. Preventive care and good control of your diabetes is highly recommended.
Dementia – a link has been also found between gum disease and dementia. People who had a high level of severe periodontal disease displayed the poorest results in memory tests and calculation tasks.
Rheumatoid arthritis – rheumatoid arthritis is a disease characterized by inflammation and painful joints. There’s a link between people with rheumatoid arthritis and having periodontal disease. Again, the inflammation could be the main factor to blame.
Premature birth – some studies find a link between premature birth and periodontal disease while others do not find such a link. There’s no consensus between the studies and they’re still ongoing. If you are planning to be pregnant in the future, this could be a factor to consider.
- Missed opportunities
The fact is a lot of people never do what they wanted to do in their lives. I hope that is not true for you but a lot of people seem to agree with it. We all know that first impressions are very important and it takes about 30 seconds to a minute to make that crucial first impression. We know instantly the people we like and we would like to do business with or people who don’t make such a good first impression and essentially we end up not liking them.
The same is true when you call a customer service department; it takes about 30 seconds to a minute to determine if your phone interaction will be pleasant or unpleasant. Opportunities take the form of doors and we can recall countless instances of open doors with open opportunities and countless closed doors with closed opportunities. What makes life interesting and enjoyable is to have more of the open doors with open opportunities and fewer of the closed doors and closed opportunities.
But what does this mean in terms of oral health?
Since first impression is a well-known and common concept, I will briefly breeze through some study findings. In a study with more than 10,000 participants, researchers found that 77% of the people reported that having bad teeth is viewed as a barrier to getting hired and it damages careers. In another study, 74% of the people reported that an unattractive smile can hurt career success.
Ultimately we want to have fewer closed doors for our children and ourselves, which is why it can be so important to get your child in for an initial free consultation with a reputable orthodontist who can assess your child’s needs and create a treatment plan that will be customized just for them. This can begin as early as age 7 for the initial assessment, and children as young as 10 can get braces to help the teeth fit correctly in the jaw while the bones are still growing.
The Process of Getting Teen Braces and Braces Colors?
At the initial consultation, the orthodontist will take some X-rays to get an idea of the facial structure and bone matrix of the jaws. He or she will also do a visual assessment and may even use some 3D scanning technology to help develop a plan for the braces. A mold may be taken if the office does not use a 3D scanner so that they have a dental reference that they can use to build the braces on.
After you have had your consultation with an orthodontist like Ivanov Orthodontics and the treatment plan has been developed, you will have another appointment to actually get the braces on. There are a few different types of braces to choose from. During your consultation you should ask questions and determine the right one for your child. You can also read reviews from other patients on the website for the orthodontist to see what their experiences were like.
There are the traditional metal ones that we always think of when we think of braces, but even so these can be made not just from stainless steel but also from space age metals like a nickel-titanium alloy that may even make your child’s treatment time faster. The new metal is used in the arch wires and it is actually heat adaptive and will take on a different shape to help move the teeth faster in the jaw and require fewer changes of the wires. Plus, modern metals mean smaller brackets. You may remember big metal brackets that rubbed on the inside of your mouth. Newer brackets are often rounder and smoother.
Your child can have some fun with the little elastics that are used to hold the wire in place on the brackets. These come in a variety of colors so they can pick out their favorite color, match their school’s colors, change with the seasons, or even create a rainbow.
Another type of braces your child might get is ceramic braces. These nearly invisible braces are still little brackets that are affixed to the front of the teeth like metal ones, and they are held in place by an arch wire, but they are nearly invisible otherwise. Because they have brackets and arch wires, your child can still have a fun time picking out bright colors of elastics.
One type of braces that is less common but is used some on children is lingual braces. These are brackets placed on the back of the teeth, or the lingual side. These are a lot more expensive than traditional braces are but for child actors or models, it means that they can still get their teeth corrected and do so completely invisibly. One of the most famous wearers of lingual braces is Melissa Gilbert. She had braces on during her time on Little House on the Prairie but no one knew because her lingual braces were invisible.
Then there is a type of braces used for teens and adults called clear aligners. The most common brand of these is by Invisalign. Since they have the ability to be removed, they are great for things like class photos or prom, but they do need to be worn 20-22 hours a day and so they are not recommended for children who are much more likely to forget to put them in or lose them.
Once you and your child have decided what type of braces to go with, there is another appointment to have them installed. This appointment is about 1.5 to 2 hours long. The orthodontist will glue the brackets to the teeth, either front or back, depending on what you choose. The arch wire is run through the brackets and then elastics are wrapped around to secure the arch wire.
Every few weeks you will go back in to see your orthodontist to have the arch wire replaced and new tension put on the teeth to continue to guide them to their new position. This is the part known as tightening the braces. If you have elected to go with Invisalign, you will be given a new set of aligners at each visit, which are usually 2-4 weeks apart.
So you might be wondering how long does this take? It generally takes between 18 and 24 months to complete a braces course of treatment but if your child’s case is not that significant, it might take less. If there is a lot of work to do, it might take longer.
At the end of the treatment time your child will have another lengthy appointment, about an hour or so, to have all of the brackets taken off. Your orthodontist will polish off the adhesive material and then your child will receive a set of retainers that he or she will need to wear faithfully to help keep the teeth in place. Your orthodontist will specify how long. It may also mean that your child will receive a semi-permanent retainer that is affixed to the back of the teeth to help hold them in place. This retainer may be worn for several years before being removed, or it may be changed out for a removable style.
Can’t wait to see what your child’s teeth will look like when the treatment is all done? Ask your orthodontist’s office to show you their before and after photos. They love to show you what is possible!
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Common Symptoms About Whether Your Child Need Orthodontic Braces for Kids
Before you even take your child to the orthodontist, there are a few things to look at that might guide you to taking your child to the orthodontist. Does your child have any of the following?
- Crooked, misplaced, two rows of teeth
- Severely gapped teeth
- Teeth that stick out forward (buck teeth)
- Early loss or non-symmetric loss of teeth
- Over retained baby teeth
- Teeth grinding
- Teeth clenching
- Teeth that bite into roof of the mouth
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Inability to close the mouth
- Mouth breathing habits
- Teeth that do not meet normally
- Teeth that do not meet at all
- Speech difficulty
- Chewing difficulty
- Jaws that are too forward, backward, or to the side
- Facial imbalance
Just having one of these factors does not mean automatically your child will have to have braces, but they should be seen by an orthodontist to determine if there will be a need for braces at some point soon.
The sooner your child can be seen and a treatment plan developed, the sooner he or she can be on the way to having a healthy jaw alignment and healthy teeth.
Some kids end up with two stages of braces – one when they are young to start the process, and again later in their teens to finish the alignment process so that they will have a great smile for life.
IVANOV Orthodontics for Your Braces Near Me Specialist
You might still have some questions, like do you have to get your braces from an orthodontist or can anyone take care of that? And how much does all of this cost? Or, perhaps more importantly, how is all of this going to be paid for? These are all valid questions. Let’s look at each one individually.
First, do you have to get your braces from an orthodontist? When it comes to Invisalign, since the company provides the equipment including the software and the scanner, there are dentist offices that will prescribe Invisalign, and that’s ok. But if you are going with braces, you should really stick with an orthodontic specialist like Ivanov Orthodontics. Orthodontists are dentists who have gone to school for an additional 2-3 years to learn all about how to correct malocclusions (bite misalignments) and make sure that your teeth are properly placed. And, if you want to go over the differences between braces and Invisalign for your particular case, the best place to do that is with an orthodontist who can do a full assessment.
Now let’s look at how much braces cost. There are two types of cost factors – time and money. Financially speaking, traditional metal braces are the cheapest at $3,500 – $7,000, depending on how long they are worn. Ceramic braces are slightly more expensive – about $500 more. Invisalign is similarly priced to metal or ceramic braces, unless you order extra retainer trays and then that will increase the price. The most expensive kind is the lingual braces, costing up to $10,000 dollars. They are harder to work with and they require custom brackets since the back of the teeth is not flat.
But there is another factor – your time. Finding an inexpensive orthodontist is desirable, to be certain, but if that orthodontist is nowhere near you, it doesn’t do you all that much good. Losing time from work and school is just that – lost time. Plus there is added fuel expense to get all the way across town, and the frustration of driving in heavy traffic. Fortunately, Ivanov Orthodontics is easy to get to and it has great hours – including hours on weekends! You shouldn’t have to fit braces into your life – rather you should be able to seamlessly integrate your appointments in at times that work for you. That’s why you should look for an ‘orthodontist near me’ when you book your appointment.
Now, how to pay for all of this? Places like Ivanov Orthodontics love to work with you to make braces affordable. They know how a small investment now has big payoffs down the road. They accept payment plans which allow you to divide up the cost of braces into easier to budget monthly payments. Plus, they accept many types of insurance plans including the major companies like Aetna, Cigna, and Humana. A lot of dental insurance plans cover teens and children for braces, and may even provide some coverage for adults. Finding an orthodontist that gives you payment options makes the whole process much less stressful.
Whichever way you choose to pay for treatment, by getting your child braces early in life, they will be set to have a great smile for a lifetime.
Contact Us
IVANOV Orthodontic Experts
12866 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami, FL 33181
https://www.google.com/maps?cid=154326063970645489
Call us at (786) 540-1919 to schedule a free orthodontic exam.
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FAQs:
Which type of braces are the best for kids?
By far the best prices for children are simply traditional metal braces. Traditional metal braces have many advantages when it comes to kids – one of which is simply its price. Having an affordable set of braces for your youngster can help save you thousands of dollars of out-of-pocket costs later on. Even if money were no object though, traditional braces also have the advantage of speed, meaning they are able to complete your orthodontic treatment for your child far faster than clear or removable braces. Since they are not removable it is far more effective at treating their orthodontic condition as it is always working and cannot be taken out except by your professional orthodontic office. Another one of the other major benefits is that since so many of their peers have braces it will not be a huge social stigma for them or make them self-conscious at that age whereas needing traditional metal braces later might. With all that being said, there is a reason why traditional braces have even become associated with youthfulness and little kids and that is simply because they are the best braces for that age group.
Why do braces cost so much when not everyone can afford them?
The pricing of braces has actually dropped significantly in recent years and while you certainly still can find some styles and types of braces that will run you over $10,000, there are now many types including traditional metal braces which can be obtained for just a little over $3,000. For many individuals, $3,000 may still seem quite steep; however, it is important to remember the type of treatment you are getting and all the steps involved to bring it to fruition when considering why it is so expensive. There is all the research that went into producing highly advanced orthodontic appliances like braces. There are the manufacturing companies that produce the space-age metals like nitinol which uses the heat of the mouth to help keep the wires warped into the right shape. This memory metal means that you need less correction and your treatment can happen faster. Then of course there is your orthodontist who spent years taking classes and learning advanced orthodontic medical treatments as well as their office, all of their equipment, liability insurance, their staff, and a whole host of other factors like taxes and the cost of running the facility. In short, when you consider that you are receiving a treatment to shift things in your body, that is a precise job requiring advanced tools, skills, facilities and know-how, and so the fact that it is as cheap as it is actually a modern marvel.
Is there a cheaper alternative to getting braces?
This is the sort of question that you should discuss with a professional orthodontic office like Ivanov Orthodontic Experts or others. Cheaper is a very relative term and it may be that there are some techniques that if adopted early enough in life may be able to assist with some dental problems such as not sleeping on your stomach, stopping thumb sucking or other sucking methods, not grinding teeth or doing anything that might exacerbate existing problems. Other alternatives can potentially be things like a tooth extraction, removing the wisdom teeth, and other types of oral surgery. These may in the long run end up being cheaper than braces but are not usually as desirable. Ultimately what is the most cost-effective for you will largely depend on your particular needs. Discussing your needs with a reputable orthodontic office can help give you all the information you need to make an informed decision, let you know about the best cost-effective treatments, and what you can qualify for.
Is it worth it to buy my kid braces?
Not only is it worth it to buy a child braces but it is strongly encouraged. There’s a whole host of reasons why it’s better to get braces for a kid as compared to waiting until later in life. One of the reasons is because they will be able to complete the treatment far faster, leading to less overall treatment time which ultimately means a cheaper procedure as well. Any time procedures drag-out, problems get worse, or the teeth get more crooked, that will cost more money to fix later as compared to when the problem is initially discovered. Fixing things as soon as they are found is a far better method for saving money and helping to protect your child’s oral health. Another reason it is worth it to get your child braces is that because so many of their peers also get braces, there is not the same level of social stigma that there is later in life. Protecting your child’s oral health needs, as well as their emotional needs, is an essential element of good parenting.
What are the cheapest braces for kids?
The cheapest braces for kids will largely depend on your individual child’s needs. Sometimes parents might think that because the corrective issue is small they can simply get away by using something like Invisalign or other clear retainers since for very small corrective things these can often be cheaper. However, especially when dealing with children, there is always a hidden cost especially when it comes to removable braces and that is that young people, particularly kids, are not good at wearing their retainers for the requisite amount of time necessary to get the treatment. In short, not wearing the braces for the minimum 22 hours per day can make treatment slow or even revert, ultimately leading clear braces to become more expensive than if you had just gone traditional braces in the first place. At the end of the day, when it comes to young people, traditional braces are by and large the most effective, the fastest, and the most affordable.
Do you believe braces for your children are worth the cost?
Braces for young kids are absolutely worth the cost. Having straight teeth can improve self-esteem later in life and with kids having increasing anxiety and psychological issues as they reach junior high and high school, any boost to your child’s emotional well-being is worth it. A great smile helps break down barriers and leads to improved self-confidence because your child can hold his or her head up high. However, emotional well-being is not the only consideration as orthodontic problems that are not treated while your child is young can deteriorate significantly over time. What might only cost a few thousand dollars and a few months of time in first or second grade might mean full oral surgery and years of rehabilitation and treatment by the time they are a young adult. As with all things medical, treating problems sooner rather than later is the surest and best way of keeping the costs down overall and speeding up the treatment time.
What is the best way to floss for a kid with braces?
One of the best ways to floss with braces on is to not floss at all. We know, that sounds strange, but a water irrigation device is actually the best tool to use. It gently helps blast away particles from around the brackets and wires. If you don’t have access to a water irrigation tool, use waxed floss and an orthodontic threader that you can find in the grocery store near all of the oral care products. It helps guide the floss in between the brackets and teeth so that you can reach the spaces between as well as the gums. Using waxed floss is best because it won’t be as likely to catch on the brackets and shred. Using floss and a threader can be a little tricky, so you may need to help a young child the first few times get the hang of it. You should also expect it to take longer than flossing without braces does.
What are some good snacks for kids who use braces?
Braces are super strong, but the adhesive that holds them on is not permanent – by design! That means meals and snacks will need to change a bit while your child has braces on. This does not mean only eating soft foods, however. Right after the braces go on or after they have been tightened is when teeth will be the most sore. This is when healthy soft fruits like grapes, bananas, and oranges will be good along with things like string cheese or yogurt. Other healthy snacks include those little round wedges of cheese, soft vegetables cut into sticks like bell peppers and cucumbers, and of course lettuces. To protect the brackets, cut apples into wedges and encourage your child to eat them peel side down. Tough breads like ciabatta and baguettes should be avoided or cut up into small pieces. You can also serve your child roasted snacks like roasted fruit or squash because the heat will break down cell walls and make them much easier to chew.
Why do more number of children need braces nowadays?
The increase in the number of children receiving braces is largely due to improvements in orthodontic technology and future forecasting of orthodontic needs. As the technology has improved to map and chart where teeth are likely to shift and predict what is likely to happen in a child’s orthodontic future, more responsible parents than ever are meeting the problem head-on by getting their children the treatment they need before it comes prohibitively expensive. Parents who get an orthodontic exam for their child may find out that if left untreated their children may have seriously misaligned teeth that could wear and grind against each other later in life leading to an increased chance of cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and ultimately tooth extraction or oral surgery. While the number of children with braces has increased, one might find that among those who got regular orthodontic care as a child the number of those receiving later in life orthodontic treatments has gone down and this is largely due to parents being more proactive in getting their children to the treatment they need.
Why do kids need braces?
Kids need braces for several reasons – sometimes it is aesthetic and sometimes it is medically necessary. Talking with a reputable orthodontic office like Ivanov Orthodontic Experts or others can let you know your individual child’s needs. Some parents may choose to get their child braces simply because helping protect their child’s self-esteem later in life is important to them, especially if things like anxiety or high stress run in a family who currently deals with dental problems. However, by and large the single biggest reason why kids need braces is for medical reasons. With advanced tooth charting software available, orthodontic offices are in a better position now more than ever before to properly forecast the way teeth will move and shift in the mouth over time and with this knowledge can let people know about potential orthodontic problems later in life. Having this knowledge about your child’s orthodontic needs, whether their teeth will be crooked or grind against each other, can help lead to greater preventive medicine which can lead to less orthodontic treatment and expense later in life.
Do you regret making your kid get an orthodontic work?
No parent should ever regret having their child get orthodontic work. Orthodontic work is an important part of maintaining your child’s health and well-being. If after talking with a qualified orthodontic office like Ivanov Orthodontic Experts or others and hearing that they determined that orthodontic treatment is needed, no parent should feel any concern or guilt at getting their child the medical treatment they need. Problems that are left untreated get worse with time not better, and this is just as true for orthodontics as it is for anything else. By having your child get treated sooner you can save them years of painful embarrassment or difficult treatments later that would have taken months as a child. It might take years as a teenager or young adult. Orthodontics is not just a nicety but rather it is an important part of protecting your child’s future oral health and overall well-being.
Is it illegal to not get braces for kids?
In short, no, but that doesn’t mean it is ok to not get braces. No law mandates that you have to have braces, but in the long run, it can mean expensive and painful procedures that you have to endure due to teeth that wore down incorrectly, exposing the softer tissues and nerves underneath. You may even experience tooth loss due to decay or extraction because the teeth developed significant issues, or your jawbone may even have suffered decay. As a parent, you need to weigh the benefits versus the cons to having braces. There is some discomfort when the braces are first put on and again after each tightening session, but you will not otherwise be subjecting your child to pain. There are payment plans and insurance options to make braces affordable for just about everyone. The long term benefits to having had braces as a child are many, and the drawbacks are few, so there really is not a good reason not to have braces.
Why are braces so expensive?
Braces are expensive for a variety of reasons and some of the most common include the cost of development and research to create the advanced orthodontics that we use today, the materials that might still be under patent and the use of advanced metals and plastics that took thousands of hours to create, develop, engineer, and get past rigorous safety standards. There are also the facilities required to manufacture those materials as well as the facilities required to install them like your orthodontic office. Plus like any business there are utilities, property taxes, liability insurance, workers’ salaries, health insurance, payroll taxes, as well as the orthodontist themselves with their years of specialized medical skills and experience, their college debt, and payments for the skills and treatment techniques they learned in school. When all of these different things are incorporated together it is little wonder then that braces can sometimes be expensive. The more specialized equipment, orthodontic appliances, and skills necessary to utilize them properly, the more expensive they are likely to be. Plus, if you look at the per month cost for braces, it is much less daunting than if you look at the full total.
What age is recommended a child get braces? Is 10 too young?
There is no set age for a child to get braces. Generally speaking, most kids who get braces get them between ages 8 and 14, depending on their unique needs. A younger child may need orthodontic treatment in order to widen the palette or create space between the teeth to allow the adult teeth to grow in normally. Sometimes this is all that is necessary, and the child is done. For other children, they may need to have braces again later once most of the adult teeth are in in order to finish correcting any bite issues. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontist visit at age 7. That does not mean that they will need to get braces at that time, but rather it is to establish a baseline for the orthodontist to work from. It also gives the orthodontist a chance to take care of any issues that would prevent the adult teeth from being able to move into place properly.
What are the pros and cons of dental braces?
There are definitely a variety of pros and a few cons. Some of the cons can include things like having braces wires that might poke you and be uncomfortable, discomfort in the mouth, limited dietary options such as no gummy things or other stuff that might get stuck in braces, and greater difficulty in brushing and flossing. However, these are all very minor inconveniences compared with the pros of dental braces which can include things like straighter teeth, a more aesthetically pleasing smile, correction of overbite or underbite, helping protect against wear on the enamel, protecting against cavities, protecting against oral surgery, protection against gum disease, tooth extraction, or periodontal disease and a whole host of other health benefits that come from having teeth in their proper place. In short, the cons of braces can be some short-term cost and short-term discomfort whereas the pros mean long-term cost-effectiveness as well as a significant improvement in your overall oral health, protecting you against far more serious orthodontic problems later in life.
Why do so many people use braces and not Invisalign?
Invisalign has several pros which makes many individuals wonder why people don’t use Invisalign on a regular basis. The fact of the matter is that traditional metal braces also have several significant pros associated with them such as their lower cost which makes them far more affordable for many individuals, especially for complicated treatments. If you have a difficult or complicated orthodontic corrective procedure then it’ll be far more affordable to utilize traditional metal braces compared to Invisalign. Another one of the benefits of traditional metal braces over Invisalign is the speed at which they work. Because traditional metal braces are installed semi-permanently until removal by your orthodontist, they are working day and night and cannot be lost or removed which can delay or revert treatment if not careful. Missing several hours every single day adds up over the months or years of your treatment leading to a significantly reduced treatment time. The other major reason is of course the ease of utilizing them. Since they are completely installed they require very little oversight on your part except to brush your teeth and to get them tightened every few weeks. Being easier to live with, working faster, and being more affordable are all great reasons why people choose to go with traditional braces instead of with Invisalign.
Which types of dental braces are most suitable?
The types of dental braces that are most suitable for you will largely depend on the type of treatment you need. Some individuals may prefer to go with Invisalign whereas others may choose lingual braces or even traditional metal braces due to their speed and cost-effectiveness. The type of dental braces most suitable to you is largely a matter of personal preference and partly a matter of medical necessity. More complex orthodontic treatments will require either lingual braces, ceramic braces, or traditional braces as Invisalign is not yet to a level of sophistication to allow for significantly complex orthodontic treatments. Invisalign is great for those who have mid to low range difficulties. Having a discussion with an orthodontic office like Ivanov Orthodontics or others can give you greater insight into what type of braces might be most suitable for you personally as individual needs can vary and so do individual treatments.
Are braces worth it?
Braces are absolutely worth the investment in time and money. Braces are not just useful for straightening up teeth, although that is an important factor in their utilization. Braces are also essential for protecting your oral health. Braces can help protect against periodontal disease, can fix overbites and underbites, can defend against wear and tear on the enamel, can help prevent tooth extraction or cavities, and stop a whole host of other serious orthodontic issues. The fact of the matter is that teeth that are in their proper positions and making contact in the right way are much more likely to last longer and cause fewer problems than those that wear improperly or grind regularly. This can lead to a significant cost savings later down the line as well as protect against unnecessary pain and suffering that can come by leaving medical issues untreated. So are braces worth it? Definitely!
Are braces as popular in other countries outside of the U.S.?
The United States is definitely recognized as a world leader in orthodontic medicine and there are few if any places where braces feature as prominently across all age spectrums as they do in the United States. Many other countries choose a more reactive approach to medicine and wait for problems to be significant or dangerous before addressing them whereas many parents in the United States prudently choose to utilize the option of proactive medicine and choose to have braces installed on their kids to prevent any future issues from ever developing in the first place. It is actually well known outside the United States that Americans are very particular about their smile and because of this it is almost an American idiosyncrasy that foreigners believe that Americans heavily utilize braces and are obsessed with the perfect smile. With all that being said, the United States certainly is a world leader in the utilization of braces as an important orthodontic treatment, far outpacing most of the rest of the world.
How are ceramic braces better than metal braces?
Ceramic braces offer several benefits over traditional metal braces. One of the most important is simply because the ceramics are tooth colored they are far more aesthetically pleasing. This is by-and-large the single biggest benefit that ceramic braces have over traditional metal braces. Ceramic braces simply look better. This can be a huge benefit to individuals who cannot afford or do not wish to have clear braces or cannot get lingual braces but still want to have a more aesthetically sensitive orthodontic option available. Ceramic braces are great in this case, especially for the short-term such as weddings or picture days. Ceramic braces use a ceramic bracket attached to the teeth and since they are tooth colored they have a far lower noticeable impact on your smile than traditional metal braces do. One of the other big benefits is they are nearly the same cost as traditional metal braces and so you will not be out significantly more to get a big aesthetic improvement.
How important are braces for a child with buck teeth?
Buck teeth can be more than they appear and are often times a symptom of an overbite or even an underbite. If your child has buck teeth then the best thing you can do is to simply check with an orthodontic office like Ivanov Orthodontics and make sure that it is not a symptom of a more pressing orthodontic problem. Sometimes when children get buck teeth it is simply because the adult teeth came in first and look oversized in their smile while in some other cases buck teeth are actually an important orthodontic problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. The sooner it can be fixed the better it will be for the overall oral health of your child. With that in mind, the best thing an individual can do who has questions about braces for buck teeth is to simply have a free consultation with a reputable orthodontic office like Ivanov Orthodontic Experts or others and discuss what options are available and your individual child’s needs.
Will braces still work as well for an 18-year-old?
Braces are an important orthodontic appliance for individuals of all ages. Many individuals think if they get older that they simply age out of the need of braces but this is totally incorrect as braces are important for people regardless of their age. Braces will often work better for those who are younger and whose teeth and jawbones are still developing but anyone of any age can and should use braces as directed by their orthodontic office. When you consider a typical lifespan, eighteen years old is still quite young. Also consider that if your dental problems have only just begun to manifest themselves as an adult then there was no way to begin treatment sooner. Making sure that you begin treatment as soon as you notice a problem is the most important part of maintaining your oral health. It is possible that you may need to wear a retainer longer when you get braces as an adult to help keep the teeth in place, but you should not let that deter you.
Do kids really need two sets of braces?
Many kids will not need two sets of braces. Most kids who get braces get them between ages 9 and 14 and wear them for about two years and then they are done with that part. They will likely need to wear a retainer for a while after getting the braces removed. Some kids have issues with a narrow upper jaw or they don’t have enough room for their adult teeth to grow in, and for them getting braces when they are young and still have a lot of bone development to go makes sense. They will then get braces later to help finish giving the teeth the alignment help they need. This treatment plan may end up costing a bit more than just having the single set of braces, but it will all depend on the individual’s needs. It is best to partner with your orthodontist to make sure that you all agree on a treatment plan that is best suited for your child.
Are dental braces overrated?
Dental braces are certainly not overrated. In fact, if anything, the need for getting proper orthodontic treatment is vastly underrated. The truth of the matter is that many individuals have a misconception that braces are just made for aesthetics and help people be more secure in their smile. Although there are some individuals for whom that is an important facet – and certainly self-esteem is an important part of health – dental braces offer far more than just pure aesthetics. One of the most important things that dental braces can offer is a higher level of orthodontic health. Many dental problems that occur later in life like cavities, gingivitis, bleeding gums, tooth decay, and even tooth loss are all serious problems that can often be alleviated or entirely prevented through the use of dental braces. Having your teeth in the correct position, not wearing each other down irregularly, and proper bite force are all important parts of maintaining your good oral health.
Is Invisalign really better than braces?
Better is a relative term and one that is dependent on your particular medical needs. For some individuals, Invisalign may be significantly better while for other people it may be less so – it really depends on your particular condition. Invisalign for instance is great at being able to treat mild to moderate orthodontic corrective issues. Anything very complex will generally require the use of braces. Invisalign also has the benefit of being nearly invisible allowing for a higher level of aesthetic satisfaction than more traditional braces and this is a huge selling point for this particular treatment method. One of the other benefits is also one of its drawbacks though and that is its removability. Because Invisalign can be removed they can also be lost or damaged in ways that are is more difficult for traditional braces. The ability to remove them can be great for eating but for people who forget to put them back it can lead to far slower treatment times than traditional braces do. The only way to know for sure is to have a conversation with your orthodontic office and discuss your particular needs with them about whether Invisalign will be better for your individual situation or not.
What should one know before getting braces?
There are many things that people should know before getting braces such as what their treatment options are, what the cost might be, what the outcome and treatment prognosis will be, and a whole host of other important orthodontic considerations. The best way to find out what your particular needs will be before getting braces is simply to have a free consultation with a reputable orthodontic office like Ivanov Orthodontic Experts or others. Professional orthodontic offices will be able to discuss your particular needs, what it is you’re hoping to achieve by getting braces, your family and medical history, the costs involved and of course a whole variety of treatment options to make sure that you’re able to make the best informed decision and know what your responsibility is in pursuing your treatment options. You can also ask them about making sure you understand how to care for your teeth and braces while you are wearing them, and also what kinds of foods are best while you wear braces.
Why do so many American kids have dental braces?
The biggest reason why so many American children have dental braces is because parents across the country know that prevention is the best medicine. Helping protect a child’s oral care later in life is far easier done at early stages rather than later. With the advanced tooth tracking software available to many orthodontic offices, parents are able to be better informed now more than ever before about the potential problems their child may face later in life as their teeth grow in and their bones mature. With this knowledge, many parents choose to head off potentially expensive issues and help alleviate major medical problems by proactively getting braces instead of reactively waiting for a problem. Braces are a proven effective treatment to help prevent tooth loss, tooth decay, bleeding gums, as well as cavities and a whole host of other orthodontic problems. By being proactive instead of reactive, American parents are setting their child up for the best chance at future orthodontic health.
What is the best toothbrush for someone with braces?
There are a few options for toothbrushes while you have braces. Be sure that the one you choose is approved by the American Dental Association and use a regular toothpaste, not a whitening one. Save the whitening treatments for after you get your braces off. An electric toothbrush has a few advantages. They often have a variety of modes or settings that will be able to provide you with a gentle cleaning or even one that massages your gums that will get your teeth clean without causing damage to the tooth enamel around the brackets. Bristles on whatever toothbrush you choose should be soft so you don’t damage your teeth or the braces themselves. Another added benefit of electric toothbrushes is that they are able to be set to run on a timer that will beep at you when it is time to move the brush to another section of teeth.
What is the best, cheapest, and safest way to get braces?
Your best and cheapest way to have braces will be to get traditional metal braces. These are the braces you will typically think of when you think of braces. They are made from metal brackets affixed to the teeth complete with archwires that guide the teeth through the matrix of the jawbone into a new, properly lined up position. They are sturdy, they are traditional because they are so sturdy, and they are generally always the least expensive. When it comes to safety and orthodontia, you should always seek the guidance of orthodontic professionals like Ivanov Orthodontics. They will help ensure that your treatment is done under proper supervision and that you receive all of the necessary maintenance appointments you will need to get the great smile you deserve. You should never attempt to straighten your teeth on your own, as you could easily end up doing more damage than if you had not done anything at all.
How to fix my teeth without braces?
You have a few options to fix your teeth without braces. One is oral surgery, but please do keep in mind that this is surgery, and that there will be a fairly lengthy recovery time. It is sometimes the only option if you have a severe skeletal overbite or underbite to correct the issues. Another way to fix your teeth without braces is through the use of orthodontic appliances that help spread out the palette to give teeth a better alignment or through permanent retainers that are worn inside the teeth to hold them in a particular arch. Still another method is useful for people who don’t have a major orthodontic issue and that is to correct overbites or spacing issues with veneers. These are usually made of porcelain and they are affixed over the teeth to become the new tooth surface. They fill in the spaces between gapped teeth and “correct” an overbite in much the same way, by filling in the space.
What is the use of braces for teeth?
Braces for teeth are the most common method to correct bite issues like overbites and underbites. They also correct gapping in teeth and improve the alignment of the teeth overall. They are more than just vanity items – straight teeth will line up correctly and not wear down prematurely. Your overall oral health is improved as a result of your straighter teeth, because teeth that wear properly will not develop cavities as readily, nor will they need bite surface fillings or crowns to help support the bite surface. And, when you have healthy teeth, your gums will be healthier, too. How so? The teeth will be stronger and not allow the opposing teeth to smash into the gums, and you can clean and floss your teeth easier. Clean spaces between the teeth means that there are fewer bacteria between them that leads to gum disease, or gingivitis. Another added benefit to properly aligned teeth is that your jaws will line up correctly and you will not have headaches from TMJ.
Are teeth braces more common in the US than elsewhere?
Around the world people consider US citizens to be vain about their appearance, and perhaps that is justified. But when it comes to oral health, Americans know that braces for teeth are a solid investment in a lifetime of healthy smiles. We value healthy teeth so much that many dental insurance plans cover part or all of the cost of orthodontia, and even Medicaid programs will cover braces for teens and children. Because we utilize orthodontics so much, innovations into making the process better are always being pursued. New space age metals have been used in braces that make them more comfortable and shorten the treatment time. Even now the braces kids wear today bear some resemblance to what their parents wore, but the brackets are smaller, the wires are more high tech, and there is a wide rainbow of fun colors for the elastics. Though braces are more common in the US, they are also leading to more advancements.
Is it necessary to remove 4 teeth in order to get braces?
For many people it is not necessary to remove any teeth. For people who have gaps in their teeth, or who have larger jaws, there is no need to remove teeth as the treatment will use those existing spaces to align the teeth properly. There are times when treating an overbite or underbite there may be a need to do extractions to create enough room for the rest of the teeth, but these are often only on the jaw that has the issue. For instance, to help create enough room for pulling the upper teeth back to correct an overbite, you may need to have a couple of 12 year molars removed. Crossbites are another oral health issue that can be corrected without any teeth needing to be pulled. This is when one jaw’s teeth completely overlap the other jaw. Every person will have a unique case and he or she should discuss their treatment options with their orthodontist.
What is the future of braces?
The future of braces is going to be interesting. Technological improvements have made it possible to use computer imaging instead of the old fashioned goopy molds to create a picture or model of the teeth. These models are what are used to devise the treatment plans and get the trays for Invisalign or plans for braces created. Plus, the simple fact that removable trays exist and can be a very effective tool for teens and adults to correct bite issues and gaps in teeth is futuristic as well. The computerized images are also able to be manipulated so that both the orthodontist and the patient can see what the end result will be. Space age materials like a nickel titanium alloy used by NASA have meant that the arch wires used in braces are activated by body heat and work to manipulate the teeth into position faster than older style stainless steel wires ever could.
What is the ideal age to get braces on?
There is no single age that is absolutely best, but the best time of life is in the tween-early teen years, between 10 and 14 years old. Truthfully you can get braces at any age – even middle age! But, getting braces while young is best because the bones of the skull and jaw have not yet fully set and that makes it better for moving the teeth into position and having them stay there. When braces start to work, they are literally using the teeth to part the matrix of the material in the jaw and move the teeth into their new position. Think of it like when you draw your finger in the sand – the grains of sand will fall in behind where your finger went. Your new tooth positions are like that. They are moved to a new spot and then the matrix material fills in behind that and it sets up, holding the teeth in position. For adults, this task is more difficult because the jawbone is more set, but that is not to say it cannot happen. Adults should just expect that their braces treatment will take a little longer than it would for a teenager.
What are the alternative options to metal braces?
There are many alternatives to metal braces, including ceramic braces and clear braces/clear aligners. Ceramic braces are just that – ceramic brackets that are virtually invisible on the teeth. They are connected by a fine metal wire but for aesthetics they are tough to beat when it comes to braces that are affixed to the teeth. Then there are clear aligners which are made from a clear plastic formed into trays that are custom fit to your teeth which work to gently move your teeth back into alignment. They are removable so you can take them out to brush your teeth and eat without any interference from the braces. These trays are also basically invisible while you are wearing them because of the clear plastic material. There are also veneers or dental bonding methods to correct bite issues or gaps without any metal braces. These are not a type of orthodontia, but they can fix some dental issues.
Why do kids who still have baby teeth get braces?
There are several reasons why a child who still has his or her baby teeth may need to get braces. Your child may have a small jaw and the adult teeth won’t have room to grow in unless some corrective measures are taken. The jaw bone is not yet set in children and even through the teen years, so this is the perfect time to get the work done. Braces help create room and reduce crowding that can sometimes happen, especially when used in conjunction with a palate expander. Your child may also have crooked teeth or teeth that are otherwise misaligned. Braces at any age can correct this. Braces can also fix an underbite or overbite, or even a crossbite. And, braces can create spaces between the teeth to give the adult teeth a place to come in. So, even if your child has his or her baby teeth still, braces can do a world of good.
What is the benefit of braces?
There are many benefits to braces. They can do things like correct bite issues such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites. They can straighten crooked teeth or close large gaps between the teeth. All of that leads to a much healthier mouth, a better ability to chew, reduced TMJ pain, reduced headaches from misaligned jaws, and improved self-esteem. A healthier mouth results from the teeth lining up correctly and that means that the dental surface known as enamel will wear properly. When the teeth wear correctly, they don’t develop cavities as much, and the teeth can be cleaned easier. That helps also keep the gums healthy so that inflammation is kept down. Healthy gums lead to healthy jaws. It all ties together. Few investments that you can make in yourself pay off with such major dividends. And, when you make this investment you also start to get some compliments. Who doesn’t want that?
How does an orthodontist fix dental issues in children?
An orthodontist can fix dental issues in children through the use of several appliances like space maintainers or palate expanders. These devices help to provide enough room in the upper jaw for the adult teeth to grow in and potentially to correct an overbite or crossbite. They also can create space between the teeth for the adult teeth to grow in. Your dentist or orthodontist may also need to pull out any baby teeth that are still in the way of adult teeth so they can grow in properly. Your orthodontist may also use things like headgear in conjunction with braces to help bring the jaws into proper alignment. Then of course there are braces that can help align the teeth properly or correct any bite issues. Any underlying issues like cavities or gum disease will need to be taken care of by your dentist first before trying to get braces.
How to best ensure straight teeth for my children?
There are a few key things you can do to help ensure your children have straight teeth. One big thing is to keep them from sucking on a pacifier or their fingers and thumbs. The pressure exerted by sucking will distend teeth and can create overbites or buck teeth. You can also start taking them to the dentist as soon as they have teeth, which is what the ADA recommends. These regular cleanings and checkups can find any issues before they become problems. If you have a family trait that lends itself to underbites or overbites, there may be some preventative measures that your dentist can do or he or she can recommend a pediatric orthodontist who can utilize some of the latest technology to help correct bite issues. It may even be that this is all that is needed and your child will not need braces later on. Only a dental professional can assess your child’s teeth and jaws and know for sure.
What dental clinic is best for children?
The best dental clinic for children is typically one that specializes in pediatric dentistry. These are dentists who have had extra training to work with kids. All they do is work with kids or perhaps the family with kids, but they don’t run a general dentistry office. The staff will also be much more familiar with working with youngsters and all of their unique needs. The office itself will often be set up for keeping kids from feeling stressed, with activities and maybe even games to help keep their minds occupied. It is important for your child to see a dentist to help keep tooth decay from happening as the adult teeth start to come in. This can also help ward off other issues like crooked teeth or overbites from things like thumb sucking or pacifier use before it becomes necessary to have braces to fix the issue. That means you should visit a dentist for the first time by the age of one or when the first tooth comes in.
How to ask a dentist for braces?
You might feel awkward about asking your dentist for braces. After all, they are the dental experts and you might think that he or she should bring it up. But, you should not be intimidated by them if you have questions or concerns about your teeth because they are general dentists and not orthodontists. Orthodontists are general dentists that specialize in teeth and bite alignment only. So, sometimes your general dentist might not even know you have teeth bite problems. You can ask them about your bite or the spacing / crookedness of your teeth and to see if braces or Invisalign would correct that issue. They may respond that your situation is not that extreme and you can elect to have corrective treatment or not. And, your dentist may be erring on the side of caution and not bringing up the subject first so that you can have the chance to ask first if it is something that troubles you. Regardless, do your own research and search online “orthodontist near me” or your dentist will be a good resource for you to find out a professional opinion. Try to find orthodontist near you that offers a free consultation.
What happens if you have a loose tooth with braces?
It is very common for your teeth to feel a little bit loose while wearing braces, particularly when you have just gotten them on or you have just had them tightened. This is a normal feeling because your teeth do need to move in the jawbone for the treatment to be effective. This should go away once the teeth have settled in to their new position. Now, if your teeth feel really loose, like they did when you were losing your milk teeth, there might be something more significant going on, in that the bone is not reforming where the teeth have moved. This is called osteoclastic activity, and it can mean that the roots of the teeth are also getting damaged in the process. You should call your orthodontist right away if this happens. You can also call your orthodontist if you have any questions about how your teeth are feeling.
Do you have to put a down payment on braces?
For many people who elect to do payment plans, a down payment is a necessary first step. Oftentimes it is the amount of the first payment, though this can vary. Some offices will charge 10% of the total cost of braces as the down payment, while others will charge a fixed amount, like $100, regardless of the total cost of the treatment plan. And, consider that the more you can use for a down payment, the less you will have to pay each month for your braces. Each office will be slightly different, however, so your best bet while researching orthodontists is to call the office and ask to speak to the billing department to find out what they require as a down payment. This is also something you can discuss with your orthodontist during the initial consultation to find out what they require and if this is something that is negotiable.
Do people still get the braces with the headgear?
Though to be certain headgear is not as common as it used to be, people still will need headgear in certain types of cases. Many kids who have jaw alignment issues will need headgear to help correct the issues. One type is called reverse pull headgear which helps pull the upper jaw forward and therefore clears up any underbites. Headgear is often only prescribed for night wear any more, so kids who do have to wear it will only do so in the comfort of their own home. While uncommon, some adults will also need to wear headgear to help adjust for any bite issues or correct palate problems. Many new appliances have made headgear not necessary for adults, like palate expanders and the like, but for some cases nothing is more effective at making the necessary jaw adjustments needed. For kids especially since the bones of the head are not set completely, it can mean the difference between needing surgery and not needing it.
Which orthodontist should I trust to get treated for braces?
A trusted orthodontist is someone who starts off the relationship well and provides great customer service along the way. By offering a free initial consultation, you get a chance to find out what kind of treatment you should expect, and also an estimate of costs. This also gives you a chance to meet the orthodontist and his or her staff to determine if you all will be compatible. A trustworthy orthodontist is also someone who is a part of a professional organization which means that they make networking a priority, and they should also attend conferences or continuing education classes to keep current on modern techniques and trends. The office should be modern and clean, and that extends to the website as well. You should be able to find useful information as well as read testimonials from current and former clients plus view before and after photos. That means that you should be able to start your research online easily. If the website isn’t current or if the office has that “old” feel to it, you might want to keep looking for another orthodontist.
What are the disadvantages of wearing braces?
Some disadvantages to wearing braces include discomfort while wearing them, changing what you eat or at least how you eat, and cleaning your teeth and braces. When your braces first go on and after every tightening, you will feel some discomfort or soreness in your jaws because of the tugging on your teeth. You can alleviate this by taking an over the counter pain reliever. With braces, you have to be careful what you eat so that you don’t break off the brackets or damage the wires. This means cutting up foods like apples or carrots and eating softer foods. And when it comes to cleaning your teeth, it is really important to keep your regular dentist visits so that they can do a professional cleaning around all of the appliance pieces. In between visits, you need to be diligent about avoiding foods that can stain your teeth, brushing and flossing regularly, and not trying to bleach your teeth while you are wearing the braces.