How are braces put on?

Orthodontic treatment is a method that many people turn to, primarily for cosmetic reasons but also to treat other oral health conditions. This procedure, performed in private practices and public hospitals, forms the basis of a healthy oral structure and an aesthetic smile. One of the most frequently asked questions by those seeking information about orthodontic treatment is, “How are braces put on?”

Although individuals who want to get braces may be very willing, they can be hesitant because they don’t know what the treatment will be like. The process of getting braces, often perceived as a painful and uncomfortable experience, is not what it seems. The duration the braces stay in the mouth varies based on individual differences, additional treatments, and other procedures. The effect can also vary depending on the person’s own pain threshold.

What is Orthodontic Treatment For?

Orthodontic treatment is applicable to all age groups. The duration of this treatment, performed by specialists, is determined by the structure of your teeth. The situations where orthodontic treatment is necessary are:

• If teeth are crooked and misaligned.
• For the correction of jaw irregularities.
• If there are gaps between your teeth or if your teeth are crowded.
• If your teeth are rotated and are likely to cause more significant problems in the future, orthodontic treatment is also necessary.

The necessity of orthodontic treatment should be recognized early, and the process should be initiated. After a general check-up of your teeth, braces are applied in line with the patient’s wishes.

How is Orthodontic Treatment Performed?

There are quite a few prejudices against getting braces. Seeing people around us experiencing pain from braces also makes us hesitant. Contrary to popular belief, orthodontic treatment is not as painful a process as you might imagine. The appearance of braces, another source of anxiety, has become solvable with transparent braces. In addition, the colors of braces can be customized according to your preference. To briefly summarize the orthodontic treatment process that will break your prejudices, the following points will suffice:

• First, your teeth are prepared for the braces; a cleaning process is performed.
• The type of bracket to be used is selected. There are three types of brackets: plastic, metal, and ceramic.
• The selected brackets are attached to the teeth. After this stage, which is completed with a bonding process, the wire is threaded through.
• The wire is passed through the brackets, and the process of guiding your teeth begins.
• Orthodontic treatment varies between 6 months and 3 years.
• Throughout your treatment, your teeth are kept under observation. Depending on the stages, orthodontic elastics are fitted to ensure your upper and lower jaws are properly aligned.
• Regarding the question “How are orthodontic elastics put on?”, your doctor will perform the initial fitting, and afterwards, you can do it yourself.

Although the orthodontic treatment process does not present daunting levels of pain or disruption to social life, it should be started bearing in mind that it is a process that varies from person to person. Additionally, in case of braces pain or any unusual situation, you should have it checked by your doctor.

How are Braces Put on Children?

We mentioned that orthodontic treatment is suitable for all age groups. Orthodontics in children can begin after their primary teeth have fallen out. Recommended from the age of 6, orthodontic treatment in children can prevent respiratory problems and jaw disorders early on.

In cases of malocclusion or crowded teeth, the procedures should begin with the permanent teeth. Orthodontic treatment for these teeth, which emerge after the primary teeth, can be done between the ages of 10-12. One of the biggest advantages for children who are not keen on orthodontic treatment can be transparent braces. These braces, which are not visible from a distance, will make your child feel better and look more favorably on the treatment.

Caring for Teeth with Braces

The advice “take good care of your teeth” is one of the most valuable pieces of advice from our parents. Dental diseases that are not noticed at an early age can result in tooth loss in later years. For this reason, we should always take good care of our teeth and not ignore their discomfort. For people undergoing orthodontic treatment, this care should be even more meticulous and detailed.

One of the main care items that changes after starting orthodontic treatment is the orthodontic toothbrush. This brush, which is a special tool, aims to prevent residue from remaining in the mouth by reaching into narrow spaces. For braces care, we can continue with our classic oral and dental care routine. Using dental floss and mouthwash are practices that extend the life of our teeth.

Your teeth are the first point of contact in your relationship with food. How you take in food is as important as the food you put into your body. A healthy mouth is an indicator of a healthy life. Therefore, you should get braces when necessary. You should not neglect your normal dental health and should take care of your health as a whole.