Dental TipsHealth & Fitness

What are Braces?

Braces aim to straighten the teeth, meaning the teeth and gums can be looked after to a higher degree, avoiding any dental health concerns. Braces also aim to reduce the overbite of the teeth, making everyday tasks using teeth more comfortable, whilst resulting in a beautiful smile, which increases self-confidence.

Braces come in several forms, however, they all aim to achieve the same results. Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry concerned with treatments which straighten the teeth. Traditional braces work by adhered brackets to the teeth. These brackets are attached to the wire, which aims to encourage the teeth to move in a certain direction. Clear braces and aligners work in a similar way, aiming to encourage the movement of the teeth in a direction which allows the teeth to straighten.

Braces are typically thought of as being worn by young individuals, teens, and adolescents, however, they are available to all ages. Adults may opt for orthodontics at a later stage for several reasons, if they have undergone treatment as a child and not maintained their smile with a retainer, they may wish to return to another form of treatment. Braces were less common many years ago, and most adults didn’t have so many options when they were younger, they may wish to choose an orthodontic treatment due to the range of options now available within modern dentistry, as well as the ever-growing financial options available, which can avoid payment in a lump sum.

Are there alternative options for braces in Birmingham?

Although traditional metal braces are thought of when ‘braces’ comes to mind, there is a multitude of orthodontic options. Clear braces and white braces may be an option for individuals who are older and wish to opt for a more discreet design. Subtle orthodontic options may also be preferred for individuals who are in a professional work environment and wish to hide their dental work.

Why might clear braces be a better option for me?

Invisalign is the largest provider of clear aligners, although there are other producers. Clear aligners work gradually by updating the retainer every few weeks and encouraging the teeth to move within the process. Moulds of the teeth are taken, and the teeth are encouraged to move in a certain direction. Clear aligners are practically invisible and are becoming extremely popular within modern orthodontics. White or ‘teeth coloured’ braces work in the same way as traditional metal ones do, brackets have adhered to the teeth, and a wire is then applied, the only difference is the colour of the brace. 

What if I feel nervous about undergoing orthodontic treatment?

Nervous patients are a common occurrence within all dental and orthodontic treatment, patients of all ages may feel anxiety surrounding dentistry for several reasons, and the majority of dental practices will accommodate this. Whether it be due to a negative experience as a child or simply an irrational fear, patients may dread their visit to the orthodontist. All practices may approach nervous patients in different ways, but usually, they will offer an initial consultation. Initial consultations can help ease a patient’s nerves by going through the different treatment options available, and deciphering which is the best option. Anaesthetic is also available for patients who may fear the discomfort experienced through surgeries and procedures.

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