Braces are used to correct the appearance of uneven teeth or an incorrect jaw position. If you decide to use braces, first know the type, the installation process, and the risks.
Installation of braces is ideally done when children who have dental problems are 12-13 years old. At this age, the mouth and jaw are still in their infancy, so they are easier to position.
However, braces can also be placed on adults although their effect is limited and requires a longer treatment time. In general, braces are used to correct the following conditions:
- The distance between the teeth is too tenuous
- Crowded or piled up teeth
- The front teeth of the upper jaw grow forward or backward
- Problems with the jaw, such as improper jaw position
Types of Braces as Needed
Braces are generally performed by an orthodontist, which is a dentist who has undergone special training to diagnose, prevent, and treat misaligned teeth and jaws. This specialist dentist will determine the right type of braces to use, according to your condition.
The following are some of the commonly used types of braces:
1. Permanent braces
Permanent braces consist of boxes that are attached to each tooth and connected to each other by wires. Braces are used to correct the position of several teeth at once and prevent problems due to uneven teeth in the future.
Permanent braces are generally easy to see because they are made of metal. However, now many are offered wire made of ceramic or translucent plastic to make it look more obscure, but at a higher price.
2. Removable braces
Removable braces are shaped like plastic cross-sections that are positioned over several teeth and cover the roof of the mouth. These types of braces are usually used to correct minor problems, such as crooked teeth.
Detachable braces are usually removed when going to do certain activities, when cleaning the mouth, or when brushing teeth.
3. Functional braces
Functional braces are a pair of removable plastic wires that are combined and placed on the upper and lower teeth. This type of braces can be used to treat the problem of the position of the upper and lower jaws being out of alignment with the upper or lower teeth.
Functional braces should be worn at all times for maximum benefit, and only removed when eating or cleaning.
4. Headgear
Headgear is a hook that is connected from braces and placed on the head to pull the position of the front teeth. Users of this type of braces generally cannot eat or drink while wearing them, so they are often only used while sleeping.
5. Retainer
Retainer It is usually used towards the end of the orthodontic treatment period. Retainer serves to stabilize the new position of teeth, gums, and bones, including preventing them from returning to their original position.
This tool can be permanent or removable. After stopping using retainers, the position of the teeth will likely change from time to time naturally.
6. Braces lingual
Braces lingual similar to permanent braces, only the boxes are taped behind the teeth. These braces are almost invisible and work as fast as permanent braces, but they are more expensive.
7. See-through braces (clear aligners)
see-through braces (clear aligners) is reserved for someone whose teeth and gums have stopped growing. Clear aligners It is used like a dental guard and can be removed when you eat or clean your teeth.
Although it costs more, this product is widely chosen because it is considered more practical and does not interfere with appearance.
Steps to Install Braces
Consultation with an orthodontist is the first step to determine if braces are necessary. Next, the installation of braces is carried out in several steps, namely:
- The orthodontist asks questions about your health.
- You will have a dental, jaw and mouth examination.
- Additional examinations will also be carried out, such as X-rays, to see the position of the jaw and teeth.
- You will be given instructions to bite into the molded material in the shape of your jaw and teeth to determine what type of treatment is appropriate.
- In certain cases, tooth extraction may be necessary to correct the position of the teeth and make room for the surrounding teeth to grow properly.
- Installation of braces.
Once the braces are in place, you should see your dentist at least once a month to make sure the braces are in place. You should also see a doctor immediately if you feel sick or very uncomfortable after wearing braces.
The time it takes to use braces varies from person to person, depending on the severity of the problem, your dental health and your compliance.
On average, braces are used for 1-3 years and continued with use retainers any time for 6 months. If the dental problem has been resolved, you are advised to continue using retainers only while sleeping.
Some of the Risks of Braces Pemasangan
The following are some of the risks of installing braces that you need to know:
Pain or pain
After braces, your teeth and jaw will feel sore and sore for at least a week. This is caused by a shift in the position of the teeth. Pain can also occur after braces are tightened during regular visits.
To relieve the pain, your doctor may prescribe pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. In addition, you are also advised to eat soft foods for a while.
Leftovers tucked between braces
Braces can trap food debris, triggering the buildup of plaque and bacteria. This can lead to cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and loss of minerals in the outer layer of teeth.
Shortened tooth roots
Shortening of the root of the tooth occurs when the tooth moves in a certain direction due to the pressure of the wire. Shortened tooth roots can make teeth unstable or less stable.
The arrangement of teeth back to normal
Not following orthodontic instructions after braces are removed, especially during use retainers, can make the arrangement of teeth back to its original position.
Make sure you consult with your dentist before installing braces. After the braces are installed, don't forget to clean them regularly using a soft-bristled toothbrush and dental floss, avoid eating sweet, sticky, and hard foods, and regularly check your teeth with the dentist.