Some people win the genetic lottery and are born with perfectly straight teeth. A lot of us, however, aren’t quite so lucky. Braces are the tried-and-true method of achieving the straighter smile you’ve always wanted. At Ricard Family Dentistry, we can align your teeth and eliminate the issues associated with a crooked smile using high-quality braces in Port St. Lucie.
Braces are orthodontic devices used to correct mispositioned teeth. They are made up of several components, including metal, plastic, and elastic. Braces help move your teeth to the desired position by using brackets and elastic bands to exert pressure over time.
Depending on the condition of your teeth, this process can take months or years. During the treatment, you will be required to visit the dentist to help make the incremental adjustments that help reshape your teeth.
Anyone who is dealing with malocclusion, or a misaligned bite, may need braces to correct it. Below are some of the most common types of misalignments people can experience:
Most orthodontists recommend patients begin orthodontic treatment between the ages of 10 and 14. Children should already have all their permanent teeth by this time, making it ideal for getting braces to correct misalignments. The jawbone is also more malleable at this young age, making it easier for teeth to shift to proper alignment.
This doesn’t mean adults can’t enjoy the benefits of braces if they have misalignment! The severity of your case will determine how long your orthodontic treatment will take. On average, most patients (adults and children) will need to wear braces for up to three years until their teeth are properly aligned.
After getting your braces put on, you will need to return to the office every four to seven weeks so we can monitor your progress. These appointments are typically half an hour long and involve the following:
If one of your brackets breaks, it can extend your orthodontic treatment by at least another month. To prevent any disruptions in your treatment, you want to take good care of your teeth and braces. This involves having a good oral hygiene routine and eating the right foods. The following can ensure that your braces remain in the best shape possible throughout your treatment:
Failing to take proper care of your braces will not only prolong your orthodontic treatment but can also put you at a greater risk of other oral issues or diseases.
Many people feel embarrassed about crooked teeth, but there are many good health-related reasons to have braces—outside of crooked teeth. Misaligned teeth make you more prone to developing oral health issues such as cavities and other types of decay. Crooked teeth are also associated with TMJ disorders and even a propensity for developing sleep apnea.
Besides having a straighter smile, braces can provide orthodontic patients with numerous other benefits. Some of these advantages include:
Ricard Family Dentistry is dedicated to bringing our patients smiles they can be proud to share with the world. If you are ready to improve your oral health and get your smile back on track, call us today!
Starting the process of creating your perfect smile is just a phone call away. If you’re interested in dental implants or mini implants, schedule an appointment with Ricard Family Dentistry at our Fort Pierce or Port St. Lucie locations today!
