Orthodontics is the area of dentistry that covers the diagnosis and treatment of the alignment of teeth and jaws. Treatments include various types of braces that naturally align the teeth functions and aesthetics. Whilst orthodontics can improve your look and smile, it also helps with deeper issues like incorrect bite, chewing issues and overall oral and digestive health.
The best time to see an orthodontist is at the start of your teenage years, as this is when there is rapid growth and change. However, there are no age restrictions, and orthodontists will be happy to take on new patients of all ages.
Anyone can be treated with braces. Providing there are no oral health issues, there are no restrictions on who can be treated with braces.
Getting the braces fitted is painless, but over the following few days, you may experience some aching as your teeth are realigned to their new position. Sore cheeks and tongue may also occur. Mild painkillers such as paracetamols should be taken to help to alleviate the discomfort.
It is not unusual to experience a short adjustment period after having braces fitted. If you have been fitted with aligners, you must be sure to take them out while you eat. After eating, brush your teeth and replace the aligners. With lingual or removable braces, you may find there is a slight change to the way you speak as you adjust, but this is usually very short-lived.
Depending on how complicated the treatment it, it can take from a few months for the easiest cases up to two years. On average, most treatments take about 18 months.
Some people do need teeth out for braces but this is not always the case. If you need to have teeth out or might need teeth out to achieve the best result of your treatment, this will be discussed with you prior to treatment starting.