What are braces?

Braces are orthodontic devices that are used to straighten and align teeth. Orthodontics is an area of dentistry that focuses on correcting misalignments and irregularities in the teeth.  They typically consist of brackets which are attached to the teeth and connected by wires.

Braces work by applying continuous, gentle pressure to the teeth which gradually moves them into the desired position. The key components of braces include:

• Brackets – these are applied to the teeth using a bonding agent to act as anchors for tooth movement.
• Arch wires – a thin metal wire that connects the brackets and provides the force needed to move teeth.
• Aligners and attachments – an alternative to arch wires and brackets when undergoing an aligner-system. These also apply force to the attachments to assist in moving teeth.

Gradually adjusting your orthodontic device stimulates bone remodelling, allowing the teeth to shift into a straighter and more desirable position. Bone remodelling is a natural and continuous process in the body where old bone tissue is replaced by new bone tissue.

Regular review appointments are necessary throughout any orthodontic treatment to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.

The duration or orthodontic treatment varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the type of orthodontic appliance used and individual response of the body to orthodontic treatment. On average, orthodontic treatment with traditional braces or clear aligners is anywhere between 12-36 months in adult patients. It is essential to consult with a qualified orthodontic provider to get more accurate estimates based on your specific needs and goals.

People choose orthodontic treatment for various reasons, including:

• Aesthetic improvement – to correct misaligned teeth for aesthetic reasons, enhancing the overall look of the smile’s natural appearance;
• Functional benefits – braces can improve bite alignment, helping with issues such as overbite, underbites or crossbite which can contribute to better oral function and prevent potential dental problems;
• Oral health – straighter teeth are often easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Proper alignment can contribute to better overall oral hygiene;

Consulting with an orthodontic provider can help to determine if braces are the right solution for your specific dental concerns. A specialised clinician focuses on diagnosis, prevention and correction of misaligned teeth and jaws.

Age of the patient is a common myth that can lead to many people not getting the dental work they need. Many people believe that if they have misaligned teeth, it’s too late to fix them – but this isn’t always true.

Traditional braces have been around for over 200 years and modern Invisalign® treatment has been prescribed to millions of patients of different age groups for over 25 years. Invisalign® treatment is often preferred by adults, as it’s a more discreet orthodontic option. Invisalign® is a great option for people who don’t necessarily want people to know they are having their teeth straightened.

If you are interested in starting orthodontic treatment, it is important to consider the following steps:

• Schedule a consultation – make an appointment with an orthodontic provider for a consultation. They will assess your oral health, discuss your concerns and recommend options;
• Discuss options – during the consultation, explore different options including traditional braces or clear aligners. The orthodontic provider will help you understand the benefits and consideration of each;
• Create a treatment plan – once you have decided on a treatment option, your orthodontic treatment provider will create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
• Financial consideration – discuss the cost of treatment, payment plans and insurance coverage if needed. Here at Inspired Dental Care we offer financing options to help to make treatment more affordable for patients with a simple 0% interest plan;
• Start the journey – if you’re comfortable with the treatment plan and financial arrangement, you can start your orthodontic treatment journey. Regular appointments will be scheduled to make necessary adjustments and review progress.

It is crucial to consult with a qualified orthodontic provider to ensure the most effective and suitable treatment for your individual case.

So, if you are ready to take the first steps in your orthodontic journey, please give us a call or email us to chat with one of our highly trained orthodontic treatment coordinators.