Braces

What types of conditions do braces correct?

Braces are an effective way to straighten crooked teeth and correct bite problems. Correcting these orthodontic problems improves the appearance of your smile, but they also help you with dental hygiene. Straighter, more aligned teeth are easier to keep clean. 

Braces can also ease jaw pain caused by a misaligned bite. You may find chewing easier, too.

Who is a candidate for braces?

Come to WestCare Dental if you’re bothered by crooked teeth or the quality of your bite. Teens and adults alike can benefit from braces. Getting a straighter, better-aligned smile can make you feel more confident. 

How long will I need to wear braces?

The length of your treatment with braces depends on what you need corrected. Treatment plans last anywhere from one to three years. 

Your compliance with wearing rubber bands, keeping up with regular checkups, and maintaining oral hygiene also affects how long you’ll need to wear your braces.

What dietary restrictions come with wearing braces?

You’ll need to make some adjustments to your diet and avoid certain foods that can break your wires or cause problems with hygiene. Foods that are off-limits with braces include:

• Crunchy foods, such as popcorn and nuts
• Sticky foods like caramel and gum
• Chewy foods like licorice
• Hard foods, such as jawbreakers and nuts

Certain foods that you used to bite into, like whole apples or corn on the cob, will also be challenging to eat. These foods aren’t off-limits, but you’ll need to slice the kernels off a cob or cut up an apple before enjoying it. 

Will braces make my mouth sore?

Your mouth will be a little sore in the first two to three weeks of wearing your braces. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help. As your mouth adjusts, you should start to feel more comfortable.

You may also experience some irritation in your gums, lips, and cheeks. Use the wax provided by WestCare Dental to coat the sharp edges of your braces to reduce this discomfort. 

To learn more about how braces can help you get the smile you want, call WestCare Dental or use this website to make an appointment.