Orthodontic treatments
Orthodontic treatments allow alignment of teeth to help improve their appearance and function. In addition to enhancing your smile, well aligned teeth also contribute to your oral health because they are easier to brush, and thus less prone to cavities and the risk of chipping or even breaking.
A few points to consider before starting Orthodontic Treatment
If you are not happy with the way your teeth look or work, orthodontic treatment could be the solution. Here are some questions to consider to gain more clarity!
What kind of problems can orthodontic treatments correct?
Orthodontic treatments essentially serve to correct problems of misalignment, overlap or advancement of the teeth which detract from their appearance and function. These problems are generically called malocclusions.
How do braces work?
Braces, fixed or removable, shift the teeth into their desired position by exerting a slight pressure over them for several months.
How long does an orthodontic treatment last?
The duration of an orthodontic treatment varies from one patient to another. It depends on the problem that needs to be corrected and the type of dental appliance needed. In general, the treatment time for an adult is a little longer than that of a child or teenager. Most treatments using fixed braces range from 12 to 24 months and include regular visits to the orthodontist.
Is orthodontic treatment painful?
No, the installation of braces are not painful. During this step, the orthodontist prepares your teeth by fixing brackets to specific areas on your teeth using a special glue, and then installs a wire on your orthodontic arch. This step usually takes between one to two hours.
Once the installation of the brackets is complete, there is an adaptation period. During the first few hours, you may experience some sensitiveness or pain, mostly minor. You might have some difficulty eating and sometimes pronouncing certain words. These minor problems generally go away quickly and the treatment continues on without discomfort.