Everything you need to know about orthodontics: when and why to wear them

Orthodontics is responsible for correcting dental malposition by building beautiful smiles and bringing the teeth, lips and jaw bones into a harmonious situation.

This is an important treatment because aligned teeth have better function, are easier to clean and, consequently, are easier to maintain in the long term. On the other hand, if teeth remain crooked or crowded, it is more difficult to maintain good hygiene, which can lead to cavities, periodontal disease and even tooth loss in the future.

In addition, there are certain aspects related to orthodontics that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth surface wear or fracture, poor chewing, gum and bone stress or malocclusion, which can lead to headaches and neck pain. Oral health is not the only benefit, a beautiful smile is too. Orthodontics can not only improve the appearance of the teeth but also the lips and face in general. A beautiful smile improves our self-confidence and the development of interpersonal and professional relationships.

To achieve a perfect smile there are multiple orthodontic solutions and methods, suitable for each patient’s lifestyle and budget.

Signs indicating the need for an orthodontic examination

There are some signs that can alert us to the fact that an orthodontic examination is necessary in order to correct them:

1. Late or premature loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty eating or chewing
3. Mouth breathing
4. Thumb sucking
5. Crowding or malposition of the teeth
6. Jaws that shift position, make noises or protrude or retrude
7. Difficulty speaking
8. Deep bites
9. Protrusion of teeth
10. Open bite
11. Facial asymmetry
12. Bruxism

Who should see an orthodontist

Orthodontic treatment is appropriate for both children and adults. As long as the teeth are healthy, they can be corrected. However, in children it is recommended that they see an orthodontist no later than seven years of age, as there are orthodontic pathologies that will be easier to treat if they are treated at an early age, when the jaw and maxilla are still developing. In our dental clinic in Barcelona we do orthodontics for children and adults.

On the other hand, more and more people are becoming aware of the importance of having teeth in perfect condition. Aligned teeth have repercussions from an esthetic point of view, but they also have great functional and articular importance.

Advice when starting orthodontic treatment

First of all, it is important to note that orthodontics itself is not a painful process over time, but it can be painful at specific times, when adjustments occur, when the orthodontist exerts force and pressure on the appliances placed on the teeth. However, the results can be ideal if both parties, the patient and the orthodontist, have cooperated 100% with all the indications and dental hygiene.

Dental and dental experts recommend:

1. Eat soft foods during the first day, in the form of puree or soup, so that they do not generate a strong impact on the teeth and, as a consequence, pain.
2. Eat cooked foods after the first day, as they are soft, do not need to be chewed hard and retain their properties.
3. Avoid foods that need to be bitten with the front teeth (apples or carrots), in order to avoid overstressing the teeth, in addition to preventing the bracket from falling off.
4. Avoid activities that involve physical contact, such as contact sports, to minimize blows to the face.
5. Use an ice pack to relieve pain, but do not bite down on it, as it is not only painful but also dangerous for the appliance.
6. Avoid acidic foods (vinegars or citrus juices) if sores appear at the beginning of treatment. Wax and some gels are good allies.
7. Consult with the orthodontist about taking painkillers.

Duration of orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment can last from 12 to 30 months, depending on how far the teeth have to travel through the alveolar bone. The total time will depend on the severity of the problem, but mild malpositions will only need a few months.

A preliminary analysis based on photographs, radiographs or study models should always be carried out to inform the patient of the diagnosis and the best treatment option. However, this must be accompanied by the patient’s cooperation.

When the treatment is completed, the use of a retainer will be indicated, either fixed on the inside of the teeth, or removable (night use), to prevent the teeth from moving.

Special care during orthodontics

Orthodontic experts recommend avoiding hard foods during treatment, as they can damage the appliances and cause them to become dislodged. Certain habits, such as nail biting, are also not recommended. If the appliance is damaged, it will be necessary to replace the piece, with the possibility of extending the treatment.

Strict and constant dental hygiene should also be observed, as braces tend to retain more food and bacteria.

Otherwise, orthodontic patients can lead a completely normal life.

Can it be too late for orthodontic treatment?

It is never too late for orthodontic treatment, since the position of the teeth can be corrected at any age, with greater or lesser complications that will vary according to the patient and his or her oral health. However, it is true that the best age to correct dental alignment is during growth.

Any patient can be a candidate for orthodontic treatment as long as the teeth and gums are healthy, free of caries and inflammation. In addition, the evolution of materials and new techniques make it possible to treat the patient accurately at any age.