If your teeth are crooked, crowded, or you have a noticeable overbite or underbite, braces can help. Straightening your teeth isn't just about looks. It also makes cleaning easier, which reduces your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Correcting your bite can also relieve jaw pain and prevent uneven wear on your teeth over time. It's a long-term investment in your health and confidence.
Teeth that are visibly crooked or crowded
Difficulty flossing or brushing around certain teeth
Frequently biting your cheek or tongue
Your jaw makes sounds or shifts when you chew
Teeth that don't meet comfortably when you close your mouth
Here is exactly what to expect, step by step. No surprises.
You'll meet with an orthodontist who will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and create a 3D model of your mouth. This helps them create a personalized treatment plan.
The orthodontist will glue brackets to your teeth and connect them with a wire. You might feel some pressure, but it shouldn't be painful. This appointment is usually the longest.
Every 4-8 weeks, you'll visit your orthodontist to have your wires tightened or adjusted. This is what moves your teeth into the right position. Your teeth might be sore for a day or two after.
Once your teeth are in the perfect spot, the orthodontist will remove the brackets and wires. They'll clean and polish your teeth, and you'll get to see your new smile!
To keep your teeth from moving back, you'll need to wear a retainer. At first, you might wear it all the time, then just at night. This is a critical step for lasting results.
Upload a photo of your teeth and get a free AI assessment in 60 seconds. Understand your situation before you sit in the chair.
Every procedure has some risks. Knowing them ahead of time helps you have a better conversation with your dentist.
For the first week, the brackets can irritate your cheeks and lips, causing small sores. Your teeth will also feel sore after adjustments. Saltwater rinses and dental wax can help a lot.
Food gets trapped in braces easily, which can lead to plaque buildup and cavities if you're not careful. You'll need to be extra diligent with brushing and flossing.
In some cases, the movement of the teeth can cause the roots to shorten slightly. This is usually not a major problem, but your orthodontist will monitor it with X-rays.
If you don't wear your retainer as instructed, your teeth can shift back toward their original positions. Consistency with your retainer is key to protecting your investment.
Living with braces requires a few adjustments to your daily routine, but it quickly becomes second nature. Here’s how to keep your teeth healthy during treatment.
Use a soft-bristled brush and consider a water flosser or floss threaders to clean around the brackets and wires. Do this after every meal if you can.
Things like hard candy, nuts, popcorn, and chewing gum can damage your braces. Cut up hard fruits like apples instead of biting directly into them.
If a bracket or wire is poking you, you can cover it with a small piece of dental wax. This creates a smooth barrier and gives your mouth time to heal.
Upload a photo of your teeth and get a clear picture of what is going on. Walk into your appointment informed, not anxious.
Not sure if you really need this procedure? Our AI can help you understand your options so you can have a better conversation with your dentist.
After your procedure, use DentaSmart to monitor your healing progress and get reminders for follow-up care.
You'll likely feel some soreness or pressure for a few days after they are put on and after each adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this discomfort.
The cost varies widely depending on your location and the complexity of your case, but typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000. Many orthodontists offer payment plans to make it more affordable.
Yes, but you should wear a mouthguard to protect your mouth and your braces from any impact. Your orthodontist can recommend a specific type that fits well over your braces.
The average treatment time is about two years, but it can be shorter or longer depending on your specific needs. Your orthodontist will give you a personalized estimate.
You will need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new positions. Most people need to wear their retainer nightly for many years, or even for life, to prevent teeth from shifting.
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