Wearing braces is not something anyone looks forward to. But in most cases, it is inevitable and even a medical necessity. If you are having issues with your bite or need teeth alignment, your dentist will likely recommend you to visit an orthodontist to get braces. Fortunately, there are several options available in correcting teeth alignment that will not involve months of discomfort and pain. However, this will depend on your suitability for using an alternative to wire braces. Here are some of the most common questions asked about braces.

How do braces work?

Traditional wire braces work by slowly moving your teeth to reach the desired position. This process can be painful and uncomfortable and take some time depending on the severity of the issue. If you are looking for an orthodontist Woodbridge VA offers, there are practitioners with advanced treatment methods which may offer alternatives like passive self-ligating braces which involves a sliding method of aligning teeth, making it more comfortable for the patient. Apart from fixing alignment issues, braces can also correct under bite or overbite problems.

Are there different types of braces?

Most people are familiar with the traditional wire braces commonly used today. But there are other types of braces used by orthodontists to treat patients. The example mentioned above called passive self-ligating braces is a recent development in orthodontic technology. Another example is clear braces which work like removable shields for your teeth. Lastly, there are incognito braces attached to the back of the teeth. Your orthodontist will advise whether or not you are a suitable candidate for any of these alternatives to traditional wire braces.

How long do you need to wear braces?

The amount of time required for each patient to wear braces depends on the severity of the issue. The typical period for wearing braces is about 18 months but it could be shorter or longer according to the patient’s progress. Sometimes, if the patient does not visit the dentist for adjustments as recommended, it may result in a more extended period of wearing braces. Some patients who also fail to wear retainers as post-treatment maintenance could end up wearing braces again.

Is it painful to wear braces? 

There is no need to sugar coat this question because it is a fact that wearing braces can be painful, especially during the first month. Regular adjustments will also add to the discomfort, and some patients experience gum sores. It can also be harder to eat during the first few weeks, and your dentist may recommend you to eat a soft diet for a while. You can use a particular type of dental wax to rub over the rough edges and use teething gel to soothe some of the sensitive areas. You will gradually adjust to the discomfort of wearing braces and eventually toughen up to the pain.

Are braces worth it?

The best time to get braces is during your teens so that you do not have to endure the discomfort of metal wires protruding on your teeth. Yes, wearing braces is worth the trouble, especially if you have severe teeth alignment issues. Nonetheless, your dentist is the best person to trust as to whether or not you need to wear braces.