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Think you know all about braces? Think again. Braces aren’t what they used to be. Today’s braces are not just for kids anymore. Nearly a quarter of the patients orthodontists work with toward proper tooth alignment are over the age of 18. Not a few orthodontia patients are sixty and beyond.
It’s easy to see the appeal of braces. We are all warmed by a beautiful smile. It stands out in our minds when we see one and we count it as an asset among those we consider attractive or beautiful. Having a great smile is a confidence booster. It impacts the way we feel about ourselves. It has even been suggested that your smile is related to your employment prospects and life expectancy. In fact there is renewed interest on youthful, beautiful smiles. We see evidence of this with the enormous popularity of teeth whitening.
Where smiles are marred by crooked and misplaced teeth discomfort and shame is a common. For some it even becomes a quality of life issue as taunting, low self-esteem and reduced dating prospects may result. Enter the minor miracle of orthodontia. Orthodontists use braces to straighten and correct crooked teeth.
Today’s braces come in a variety of styles and colors. We all remember a time when the mere suggestion of braces brought torrents of tears. Braces are no longer considered to be a curse and are even considered a fashion statement in some circles. Young people like the idea that braces can now be personalized with coloring and whimsical shapes. Some braces are nearly invisible and others can be removed as needed. The headgear of old is almost never used today.
Misaligned teeth affect our profile, speech and appearance. Braces can make a marked difference. Much like a consultation with a plastic surgeon, orthodontists can offer patients a preview of their new look. Modern technology makes it possible to view computer images of what you can expect your face and jawline to look like when you teeth are straight. Many welcome the prospect of an improved appearance and are encouraged by the face they see on the screen. The same technology has significantly reduced the period needed to straighten teeth.
Despite of all the benefits they bring, there can be some discomfort involved with wearing braces. This is particularly true when you begin the process and as they are tightened periodically. There are a number of products – such as wax and pain relievers - on the market that provide immediate, long-term relief.
Braces are more affordable than they used to be so that you need not mortgage your home to pay the orthodontist. Contact your dental insurance provider to learn how much of the cost will be covered. You will probably be able to arrange a payment plan for those expenses that fall outside of the payment plan.
It is particularly important to practice good oral hygiene when you wear braces. Food particles can become trapped in the braces and lead to bad breath and tooth decay. A great tool for those who wear braces is a water-pik or similar device. These tools can be an effective complement to the toothbrushes as they are able to reach those places that cannot be reached with flossing.
After braces have been removed a retainer is used for several months to a year as teeth adjust to their new positions. The retainer should be removed and stored in it container when eating. Care for it much the same way that you would care for dentures. Use a gentle brushing motion to clean it thoroughly twice each day.
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