Teeth alignment(Braces)
Why should I have my teeth aligned?
The main goal of having braces is to improve dental health and function. There are a number of reasons that can necessitate one to have teeth aligned. When you have teeth that are overcrowding and crooked which are difficult to brush and floss, alignment can be used to move these teeth into proper positions. Braces can also be used to correct severe bite problems that would hamper eating and also lead to higher risk of gum diseases and tooth loss. Get your tooth alignment by accredited dentists at Smartsmile dental clinics in Nairobi. Bite problems occur when the upper and lower jaw don’t come together properly. If your bite problem is not corrected, your teeth can wear down making it difficult to chew and subsequently increasing pressure on the oral tissues thus lowering the quality of the oral health.
Causes of Crooked teeth
Naturally, most people do not have correct bite and straight teeth due to hereditary and environmental factors. Crowding of teeth, too much space in between the teeth as well as upper teeth that don’t match the lower teeth are usually inherited. Other habits such as tongue thrusting and thumb sucking can also cause crooked teeth. Crooked teeth can also result from jaw-jolting accidents. Tongue thrusting is the abnormal tendency to push the tongue onto the back of front teeth during swallowing, making the front teeth protrude over a period of time. Thumb sucking is a common habit of young children. Children who suck their thumbs through to a later age of about seven years when the upper front teeth start to erupt can affect both teeth and the shape of the jaw bone.
What is the process of having braces fixed?
Once you visit our dental office with the intention of having braces, a clinical examination will be conducted using a panoramic view and a lateral cephalogram radiograph. This will enable the dentist to determine what you intend to achieve by having the braces on after a careful study of your radiograph. The dentist will also need a study model for bite analysis. The dentist will then embark on the treatment procedure after the analysis and treatment planning. The braces consist of an arch wire attached to tiny brackets that are made of metal or ceramic. The brackets are bonded with a glue-type agent to the front or lingual/palatal aspect of the teeth. Some of the bonding agents continuously release fluoride to protect the enamel of the teeth underneath the brackets. The arch wire requires periodic adjustment or replacement by the orthodontist in order to continuously apply pressure to achieve desired results. Braces come in different materials and colors. You can opt for clear or tooth-colored or even gold braces brackets depending on your wish.
Is the process of fixing braces painful?
After having your braces fixed, you will feel unusual pressure on your jaws, also you may experience sensitivity after a day or two after the process and even after the adjustments.
How long does it take to achieve the perfect alignment after braces?
Teeth alignment is a gradual process and it takes an average of between 20 and 24 months to achieve a perfect alignment. However, after the removal of braces, you may have to wear retainers for a while in order to keep your teeth straight and prevent them from shifting back to their original position. Retainers play a big role in holding your teeth in their corrected positions until the bones grow around the teeth to stabilize them. You might also be required to wear the retainers periodically since the teeth will always tend to shift as you grow older. Retainers also come in different colors and designs
Moving the teeth too fast can result into permanent loosening of your teeth and eventual teeth loss. This is why you are advised to look for a qualified dentist to have your braces done.
How do I take care of my braces after they are fixed?
Braces is a serious treatment commitment and will therefore require more frequent brushing, flossing and general care in order to maintain your good oral hygiene status. If you don’t maintain your oral hygiene, you might experience periodontal diseases and dental carries. You should also avoid hard, sticky food items that may eventually lead to cavities.
