What are Dental Braces?

Orthodontists use a wire-based appliance to fix or correct the crooked or crowded teeth or misaligned jaws known as Dental Braces. Usually, dental braces are done during the early teenage years and adults can also benefit from wearing the braces. The main goal of the Dental Braces is to properly align the teeth and jaws for proper bite and pleasing smile. If the correction to be done is minor, then a removable and customized option called clear aligners or invisible braces are available.

Why are dental braces done?

Dental Braces is a corrective procedure and is done in the following conditions:

• Overcrowded or crooked teeth
• Too much space between the teeth
• Overlapping of the teeth
• Underbite
• Misalignment of the jaw, etc.

What are the risks associated with Dental Braces?

Short term risks are:

• Loss of minerals from the teeth
• Gum diseases
• Tooth decay

Long term risks are:

• Shorter root lengths
• Loss of  correction 

How to reduce the risk of damaging the teeth?

• Reduce the intake of starch and sugar-rich foods & beverages
• Brush teeth regularly and carefully
• Rinsing of mouth is necessary
• Use fluoride toothpaste
• Floss regularly
• Avoid sticky food
• Avoid extra crunchy or hard food
• Visit the dentist regularly
• Follow instructions given by the dentist strictly 

What are the preparations for Dental Braces?

Following preparations are done prior to Dental Braces Fixation:

• Oral exams
• X-ray to determine the position of the teeth
• Plaster model to bite on for impression of your teeth
• Potential tooth extraction if an individual’s mouth is overcrowded
• Other orthodontic procedures if required 

What are the components of Dental Braces?

Following are the components of the Dental Braces:

• Brackets
• Ring like bands
• A flexible wire
• Small metal ties or rubber bands
• Headgear
• Temporary anchorage device