At some point in their lives, many teens will need to see an orthodontist to get their teeth straightened. This can be a daunting prospect, but it doesn’t have to be! Here is a teen’s guide to orthodontics to help you understand what to expect.
Why Should Teenagers See Orthodontists?
There are a few key reasons why teenagers should see an orthodontist. First, it’s important to get an early start on treatment if there are any problems with the alignment of the teeth or jaw. By starting treatment early, the orthodontist can often avoid needing more extensive (and expensive) treatment later.
Another reason to see an orthodontist as a teenager is that it’s often the best time to correct bite problems. If the teeth are not properly aligned, it can cause a misalignment of the bite, leading to several problems, including difficulty chewing and pain in the jaw.
Will Getting Braces Hurt?
If you’re considering getting braces, you may wonder if they’ll hurt. The good news is that, in most cases, they won’t.
Of course, everyone’s pain tolerance is different, so you may experience some discomfort when your braces are first put on or when they’re adjusted. But this is usually only temporary and will go away after a few days. If you’re worried about the pain, talk to your orthodontist about getting numbing cream or a pain-relieving medication before your appointment.
How Long Do I Have to Keep My Braces?
For many people, getting braces can be a bit daunting. After all, they are a big commitment – both in terms of time and money. So, it’s only natural to want to know how long you’ll have to keep them on.
The short answer is that it depends. Every case is different, and the length of time you’ll need to keep your braces will be determined by the severity of your dental issue and how well you respond to treatment. In general, though, you can expect to wear braces for anywhere from 18 months to 3 years. And, in some cases, you may need to wear them for even longer.
How Do I Take Care of My Braces?
If you have braces, it’s important to take extra care of your teeth and gums to avoid problems. Here are some tips:
- Brush your teeth after every meal, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste designed for people with braces.
- Floss your teeth at least once a day, using a floss threader to help get the floss under your braces.
- Rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after brushing and flossing.
- Avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage your braces, and cut your food into small pieces to make chewing easier.
- See your dentist and orthodontist regularly for checkups and adjustments.
By following these tips, you can help keep your braces in good shape and your teeth and gums healthy.
Conclusion
If you are a teenager considering braces, it is important to do your research and consult with an orthodontist to find out what type of braces will work best for you. There are many different types of braces available today, and your orthodontist will be able to help you find the right type for your smile.
Getting braces in Manassas? You can visit Solarte Orthodontics. We offer orthodontic treatments of all kinds for adults and children. Book an appointment with us today!
