BRACES

Having straight teeth is important. Teeth that are crooked or out of place (misaligned) affect the way a person chews and talks and how their smile looks. Because they have unnatural spaces, crooked teeth are harder to clean and are more likely to have cavities. In some cases, crooked teeth can affect the way the jaws line up and can cause pain and discomfort.

One method to correct this is to have Orthodontic treatment (or braces and retainers as they are sometimes called). Orthodontic treatment works by exerting a gentle pressure over time to straighten teeth that are growing, or have already grown, out of place.

Braces have three basic parts:

1) Brackets - brackets that are attached to each tooth
2) Bonding or band - the material that attaches the bracket to the tooth
3) Arch Wire - a thin metal wire that runs from bracket to bracket

Braces have come a long way from the "train track" look of years ago. Today, many orthodontic patients can get braces that attach to the backs of the teeth, or use transparent brackets.  There are also braces that look like a simple transparent mouthguard or customized plastic aligners from INVISILINE.

RETAINERS:

A retainer is a custom-made, removable appliance that helps keep teeth in their new, straightened position after braces have been removed. Retainers can also be used to treat more minor orthodontic problems.

To keep your teeth in their new position, most retainers should be worn 24 hours a day for the first week then at night while you sleep. Your orthodontist or dentist will instruct you further when to wear your retainer.

ALWAYS keep your retainers in your case when eating. NEVER leave them on a lunch tray, in a pocket, or wrapped in a napkin. Any of these situations may result in losing or breaking your retainers.

When brushing your teeth, be sure to brush your retainers also. (Remember plaque can also form on your retainers, so keep them clean.) Use your toothbrush, toothpaste, and cold water. Never boil or use hot water as this could damage your retainers.

Your speech may be affected the first few days of wearing your retainers. Reading aloud to yourself can help you become more accustomed to your retainers and will allow your speech to quickly return to normal.

To assure a proper fit, it is very important to bring your retainers to your appointment so they may be adjusted.