Clear teeth aligners are an alternative. These are made of a transparent plastic material that are made to fit your specific teeth. A sequence of different sets are applied to gradually shift your teeth into position. Aligners can be easily removed so that you can eat and drink normally and no one will even notice you are wearing them. Lingual braces, which fit on the inside surface of your teeth, are another option. However, keep in mind that these braces are more expensive since they are made of gold. Each of these types of braces has advantages and disadvantages, and not every type is right for every person. Talk to your orthodontist if you have questions about the different types.
Choose your favorite color See if you can use more than one color Choose a seasonal color(s) (like black and orange for Halloween!) Choose the color(s) of a school or sports team
You can also ask people who have already had braces about their experiences. This may provide some answers to your questions and it may also help you to feel motivated about getting braces because you can see other people’s end results.
This wax is sold under various product names, like “orthodontic wax” “braces wax,” “wax for braces,” or “dental wax. " It is widely available at pharmacies. It’s always a good idea to have a supply of wax with you. That way, if one of the wires accidentally breaks, you can coat it with wax to keep it from poking you until your orthodontist can fix it. Braces can also cause soreness from rubbing on the inside surface of your cheeks or lips in the first days of wearing them, so covering them with wax may be helpful.
First, bands will be placed on your back molars. At this point, you might start to feel some pressure on your teeth. [7] X Research source Next, a bracket made of metal or ceramic will be attached to each of your teeth. These brackets will be used to support the wires of the braces. Glue will be used to adhere the brackets to your teeth—it might not taste good, but it is harmless. [8] X Research source You might get to choose the color of these brackets. [9] X Research source After that, the orthodontist will place wires in the tops and bottoms of the brackets. These wires help to gradually move your teeth into position during the time that you wear the braces. The wires will be cut so that they don’t poke the inside of your mouth. [10] X Research source Next, small rubber bands will be inserted to keep the wires in the brackets. You might get to choose the color of these bands. [11] X Research source If you are getting clear teeth aligners, these will be fitted to your particular teeth, and can be removed to eat. They look similar to the custom made whitening trays used for the home whitening treatment. You’ll have to get a new set of aligners every two weeks.
You might feel a dull pain because of the pressure on your teeth. [12] X Research source This pain is caused by the metal wire pulling on the brackets. You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever to ease this. This discomfort will go away. You will have to remember to eat only soft foods at first. [13] X Research source
If you play a wind instrument (brass or reed), you will still be able to with braces. However, there will probably be an adjustment period needed to get used to the feeling of playing your instrument with braces. You also might want to avoid playing your instrument for the first few days after your braces are put in.
You will have to avoid hard, chewy, crunchy, and tough foods, as well as sugary foods and drinks while you have braces. Ask your orthodontist about specific recommendations regarding what is ok to eat, and what is not. [14] X Research source [15] X Research source You might be asked to wear headgear. Headgear is a rigid wire that hooks onto the bands of your braces and around your head. It helps to either move your teeth into position, or keep them there. Usually, you are only asked to wear headgear at night, if at all. [16] X Research source Your braces will have to be adjusted periodically, according to a schedule your orthodontist develops. Your teeth will move gradually into position, and your orthodontist will have to adjust the braces as they do. Most people wear braces between one and three years. After your braces come off, your orthodontist might ask you to wear a retainer for a while. This is a rigid piece of material that fits behind your teeth.
Food particles can get caught in your braces. Be extra sure to brush well around all the parts of the braces (especially after meals) to avoid plaque buildup and tooth decay. You will need to spend extra time brushing every bracket going from the back of your mouth to the front. Make sure you brush every tooth thoroughly and use dental tools to get between your teeth, such as an interdental brush, floss, and an oral irrigator. Rinsing with mouthwash will also help to keep your teeth and braces clean. Your dentist might also ask you to use a fluoride rinse for extra protection. You will need to floss using a special flexible plastic “threader” that can get around the parts of the braces. These are widely available at pharmacies.
