If you need to straighten your teeth or correct a misaligned bite, your family dentist may recommend getting braces. These orthodontic appliances are available in a wide range of styles, from metal or ceramic brackets to clear aligning trays, and are suitable for patients of all ages. The following guide will help you understand why this treatment is necessary and what you can expect when you visit the dentist.

Why People Need Braces

Crooked teeth aren’t just a cosmetic dentistry issue—they can also make it harder to clean your teeth, including the surfaces, spaces between them, and along the gum line. If your teeth are crooked or at risk of shifting due to overcrowding, braces will guide them to their proper position. The appliances can also correct bite problems in kids and adults, helping treat chronic headaches and improve their ability to chew food and speak clearly.

Types of Braces

Depending on your age and needs, your family dentist and orthodontist may recommend traditional metal or ceramic brackets or an invisible aligner system. Your dental team’s advice is based on the current condition of your teeth and your goals. Adult patients may prefer clear aligners or metal brackets that are applied to the backs of the teeth, so their treatment is discreet.

Applying Braces

Your family dentist will perform a thorough teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar and ensure the braces are applied to a pristine surface. You may experience some discomfort and sensitivity during and after your appointment, especially while you adjust to the pressure of the braces on your teeth.

Caring for Your Braces

Avoid foods that may get caught in your braces, especially sticky treats like candy. Food residue that stays in your brackets can damage the appliance and contribute to tooth decay. You may need to modify your brushing and flossing routine to reach hidden food particles. A spiral brush will fit between the wires and your teeth to sweep away residue.

When people in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, need a compassionate family dentist who will help them create their perfect smile, they count on Robert A. Klement, D.D.S. He has served the community for over three decades, providing orthodontic care, routine teeth cleanings, and teeth whitening procedures. To learn more about their services, visit the practice online or call (715) 421-3030.