The Key to a Perfect Smile: How Dental Braces Can Make it Happen

If you're looking for a way to improve your smile, you may be considering dental braces. Dental braces are a common way to correct various dental problems, including crooked teeth, gaps in teeth, and bite problems. While braces can be used to treat a wide range of dental issues, they are most commonly used to address cosmetic concerns.

If you're thinking about getting braces, it's important to understand the different types of braces that are available and how they work. 

Types of Braces and How They Work

There are many different types of braces that your orthodontist can choose from, depending on your individual needs. Here are some of the most common types of braces and how they work:

Metal braces: Metal braces are the most common type of braces. They are made of high-grade stainless steel and are very strong and durable. Metal braces are less visible than other types of braces and can be adjusted to fit your teeth more snugly.

Ceramic braces: Ceramic braces are made of a clear or tooth-colored material and are less visible than metal braces. They work in the same way as metal braces but may be more comfortable for some people because they don't rub against your gums as much.

Invisible/clear aligners: Clear aligners are made of a clear plastic material and are virtually invisible when you wear them. They work by gradually moving your teeth into place over time. You will need to wear them for at least 22 hours per day in order for them to be effective.

Lingual braces: Lingual braces are similar to traditional metal braces, but they are placed on the inside surface of your teeth (the tongue side), making them invisible when you smile or talk. Because they can be more difficult to clean, lingual braces may not be recommended for people with certain dental conditions.

Advantages of Wearing Dental Braces

If you are considering getting dental braces, then you may be wondering what the advantages of wearing them are. Here are just a few of the benefits that you can enjoy when you have braces:

• A straighter smile: This is probably the most obvious benefit of wearing braces and one of the main reasons why people choose to get them. With straighter teeth, you can enjoy a more attractive smile that makes you feel more confident in yourself.
• Improved oral health: Straight teeth are not only more aesthetically pleasing but they are also easier to keep clean. This means that you can reduce your risk of developing tooth decay or gum disease.
• Enhanced chewing function: If your teeth are misaligned, then it can be difficult to chew food properly. Wearing braces can help to correct this problem and make it easier for you to eat the foods that you love.
• Reduced risk of injury: Crooked teeth can stick out and make it more likely that they will be chipped or broken if you suffer from an accident or fall. By aligning your teeth with braces, you can help to protect them from damage.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Teeth While Wearing Braces

Here are a few tips to help you keep your smile healthy and sparkling:

• Brush regularly and thoroughly. It's important to brush your teeth at least twice a day, and even more often if possible. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste designed for people with braces.
• Floss daily. Flossing is just as important as brushing when you have braces. Use a floss threader or water flosser to get between those hard-to-reach spots.
• Avoid hard and sticky foods. Chewy candy, crunchy chips, and other hard or sticky foods can damage your braces or cause them to become loose. Stick to softer meals and snacks that won't put your orthodontic treatment at risk.
• Rinse with mouthwash. Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help keep plaque and bacteria at bay, which is especially important when you have braces since food particles can easily get trapped in the wires and brackets.
• See your dentist regularly. In addition to seeing your orthodontist for regular checkups, be sure to keep up with your regular dental appointments too. Your dentist will be able to spot any potential problems early on and offer advice

Get in touch with Arctic Smiles Orthodontics at 12020 E Shea Blvd Suite 10, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, or call (480) 614-2211 to schedule an appointment.