DENTAL BRACES
Plymouth, MN
Unlock a perfect smile with Dental Braces, the proven solution for aligning and enhancing your teeth’s appearance and health.
Table of Contents
At Smile Design, we believe that everyone deserves the confidence and comfort of a perfect smile. That’s why we offer a range of treatments tailored to our clients. If you need orthodontic treatment, you have discovered the ideal place. Braces are not just about a flashy smile; they can be essential for dental and overall health.
Types of Braces Available
If braces are the best option, you still have a lot of choices. Braces have been a primary tool of orthodontic care for years, and several kinds of braces have proven beneficial, each offering different advantages.
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the “standard” dental braces. They are a set of metal brackets attached to the front of teeth, connected with wires and bands. They are effective at straightening teeth and correcting bite issues but may not be aesthetically appealing. They are an affordable and durable option.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are a subtle alternative to traditional braces. They are made from a tooth-colored material and are less durable, but they still obtain the desired result in most cases.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are placed on the back of teeth, meaning they are undetectable. They are custom-made and have less versatility for correction but offer a discreet way to fix some orthodontic issues.
Invisalign and Clear Aligners
Invisalign and other systems have changed the landscape of orthodontics. Instead of brackets and wires, they offer removable trays of transparent plastic. Many clients choose this option for the subtlety and comfort, plus the flexibility of removing the aligner for eating and brushing.
Comparing Options: What’s Best for You?
The appropriate braces depend on your needs, goals, and preferences. Metal braces are reliable and effective, ceramics are more aesthetic, lingual braces are subtle, and Invisalign offers convenience. To determine which option is best, schedule a consultation with our team at Smile Design.
Understanding the Treatment Process
Starting the quest for the ideal smile at Smile Design is exciting, and you should know everything from the start. Let’s take a step-by-step look:
- Initial Consultation: Your orthodontic journey begins with a consultation at Smile Design. You will meet with our team during this visit to discuss your concerns, goals, and treatment options.
- Diagnostic Tests: After the consultation, we will conduct diagnostic tests. We will take impressions and X-rays to assess the alignment of your teeth and jaw structure.
- The Fitting Appointment: Traditional braces involve attaching the brackets to teeth and connecting them with wires. For clear aligners like Invisalign, we provide the first set of trays and instructions on how to wear and care for them.
Duration and Stages of Treatment:
Depending on the case, these treatments can last a few months to several years. During treatment, teeth will shift into position through adjustments. After the initial consultation, our team will provide a rough treatment timeline.
Adjustment Follow-Up Visits
During the treatment, you will regularly visit us at Smile Design. These appointments allow us to adjust the braces or aligners to ensure your teeth reach their ideal alignment. The frequency of these visits will also depend on the treatment plan and progress.
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Life with Braces
A solid oral hygiene routine is essential to maintaining braces. Brush your teeth with a soft bristle after every meal. Brackets and wires can be challenging to clean, so interdental brushes or floss thread may be needed.
Foods to Avoid and Dietary Adjustments
A few changes must be made for a healthy lifestyle with braces. Foods that damage or get stuck in the braces can cause discomfort or breakage. Sticky, chewy, hard foods like nuts, popcorn, gum, and candies are best averted.
Managing Discomfort and Soreness
Even in ideal cases, braces will cause irritation or soreness. Over-the-counter pain medication can relieve initial discomforts, but contact our team if the problem persists.
Impact on Daily Activities
Adjusting to life with braces will have some initial setbacks. You may notice changes in speech as you adjust. This is temporary. Cutting certain foods and chewing will also require some adapting, but soon, it will become second nature.
The Bottom Line
If you have orthodontic issues, braces may be the first step toward your perfect smile. Even if they have some discomfort and adjustments, if this is the next step, or if you want to consider other options, schedule your consultation appointment today!
FAQs
What are the signs that I might need braces?
You might need braces if you have crooked or crowded teeth, gaps, difficulty chewing or biting, an overbite (upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth), an underbite (lower front teeth protrude past the upper teeth), or a misaligned jaw. If you experience these issues, schedule a consultation with an orthodontist.
How do I choose between braces and clear aligners?
Choosing between braces and clear aligners depends on your needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Traditional braces are effective for treating many orthodontic issues and may be better for complex cases. Clear aligners like Invisalign are discreet and removable for easier cleaning. The orthodontist can help you determine which is best suited to achieve your smile goals.
Can dental braces fix an overbite or underbite?
Dental braces can be effective in correcting over or underbites. By shifting the position of the teeth, braces can bring your bite into proper alignment. Additional orthodontic appliances or treatments may be recommended with braces to achieve optimal results, depending on the severity.
What is the best age for my child to get braces?
While braces can be advised for children as young as seven, the ideal age for orthodontic treatment depends on factors such as the development of adult teeth and circumstances. The orthodontist can evaluate your child’s dental growth and recommend the appropriate time to start treatment.
How do I manage pain and discomfort with braces?
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can alleviate soreness after adjustments. Applying orthodontic wax to brackets or wires can also help. Eating softer foods and avoiding hard or crunchy snacks can minimize discomfort. If the pain persists or becomes severe, contact your orthodontist for guidance.
Are there restrictions on activities or sports with braces?
Taking precautions to protect teeth during physical activities is essential while wearing braces. Mouth Guards can prevent injuries during contact sports. Specific activities that pose a risk of injury to the face, such as boxing or wrestling, may need to be avoided or modified. Your orthodontist can guide you in safe exercise while undergoing treatment.
Before & After Photos
It’s Time To Correct Those Crooked Teeth.
Find out how easy braces can be by scheduling your consultation!