Braces
Dental and facial abnormalities can cause problems throughout life. Problems with your bite, crooked teeth, and crowded teeth can lead to problems with your oral health. These issues can also be uncomfortable while chewing and eating and can lead to discomfort in various ways. This is why many people get braces from their orthodontist in Shawnee and Overland Park, KS. At Bulleigh Orthodontics, we provide braces to help patients straighten their teeth.
In addition to correcting problems with your bite and tooth alignment, braces can also help you achieve your goals for your smile. Many people want straight teeth to feel more confident in their appearance. A vibrant smile can help you make connections with other people, so it’s important to have total confidence in your appearance. Braces can help with this.
What Are Braces?
Braces are an orthodontic tool that can help straighten your teeth and correct a misaligned jaw. Braces are made up of brackets that are attached to the teeth and wires connecting them. Some braces are made of hard-to-see materials, but traditional braces are made from metal.
Who Needs Braces?
People who need braces may have problems with their bite (overbite, underbite, etc), crooked teeth, or crowded teeth. These conditions can make flossing and brushing more difficult, can lead to extra wear and tear on the teeth, and can affect the appearance and structure of your face. If you need braces, your orthodontist will be able to tell you. You’ll need an evaluation from a professional to determine whether you need braces and, if so, for how long.
Signs You Need Braces
There are many signs to look for that indicate you may need braces.
Here are some problems to watch for:
- There are gaps between your teeth
- You have an overbite, underbite, or another problem with the way your jaw aligns
- You have problems pronouncing certain sounds, letters, or words
- You frequently bite the inside of your mouth
- You get tired after chewing for a while or have discomfort while chewing
Braces Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about braces, we have answers! Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about braces.
How do braces work?
Braces are made up of brackets that are attached to the teeth and wires connecting the brackets. Wires are tightened to put gentle pressure on the teeth, to move them into place. They’re adjusted regularly as the teeth slowly move to the correct position. When the process is done, the orthodontist will prescribe a retainer to help keep your teeth in the desired position.
How long do braces stay on?
Braces may be on your teeth for as little as six months, or as long as 30 months. Typically, patients wear braces for about a year and a half. Your dentist may give you an estimate of how long you will need to wear braces, but every patient is different.
What happens when braces are removed?
When braces are removed, your dentist will prescribe a retainer for you to wear to help keep your teeth in the correct position.
How should I take care of my teeth when wearing braces?
Brush your teeth after every meal, using fluoridated toothpaste. Floss daily. Your dentist can show you how to floss with braces on. Avoid sticky foods like taffy, which can get caught in your braces, or foods with a lot of extra sugar. Avoid hard foods that could do damage to your braces. Continue to get routine dental exams from your dental provider every six months.
Do I need to brush my teeth more often when I have braces?
Yes, brush your teeth after every meal and snack.
Do braces hurt?
Braces can cause discomfort when they’re installed. You may feel soreness for a few days, but this will go away. Your orthodontist may recommend over-the-counter pain medication as you adjust. You may also feel some irritation against the inside of your mouth as they rub against the wires and brackets. Orthodontic wax can help prevent this irritation.
Why Choose Bulleigh Orthodontics For Braces?
Bulleigh Orthodontics is a trusted name in orthodontic care in Shawnee and Overland Park, KS. Patients trust us to help them correct problems with their bite and tooth alignment. If you need braces, we can help.
Here’s what you can expect from us:
- Modern, comfortable dental office
- State-of-the-art equipment
- Excellent patient care
Our staff are fully trained to provide the best orthodontic care for our patients.
Need Braces In Shawnee and Overland Park, KS? Contact Us Today
If you require orthodontic treatment like braces in Shawnee and Overland Park, KS, our dental professionals can help you with the process. Find out why so many patients choose Bulleigh Orthodontics for their orthodontic care. Start with an evaluation with one of our dental experts. Call today to make your first appointment.
