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Braces are one of the best dental treatments to treat crooked and crowded teeth and many jaw disorders. In addition, braces alleviate any issues you may have with speaking, eating and cleaning your teeth. Self ligating braces are now thinner, sleeker, and more comfortable, thanks to advances in dental technology.
Braces comprise regular metal brackets adhered to your teeth and connected by wire. Dr. Ballard will adjust them every 6-12 weeks so consistent pressure can align your jaw and straighten your teeth gradually. Although metal brackets are today’s most popular orthodontic treatment method, additional solutions are also available. Get in touch with Ballard Orthodontics for the best Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry self ligating braces.
With self ligating metal braces, we use non-toxic glue to attach stainless steel brackets to your teeth and then connect the brackets with wires. To keep everything in place, we wrap little elastic bands around the brackets. You need to visit us every four to six weeks so we can tighten your braces and keep your teeth moving in the appropriate direction.
Clear braces, like metal braces, have brackets and wires. However, instead of metal brackets, they feature ceramic or porcelain brackets, which makes the braces blend in with the teeth. That means they are less obvious to others. In addition, there are frequently several colors to pick from, allowing you to match the color of your teeth.
Clear braces are less visible, so they are a popular choice for adults who need orthodontic treatment but don’t want to draw attention to their braces. Like self ligating braces, you will need to visit your dentist periodically to get your wires tightened.
Braces may cause mouth irritation or can be uncomfortable. But they are not painful. You may experience soreness around the gums following a visit to the orthodontist as the braces are adjusted. Taking pain relievers for a day or two and eating soft meals will make the ache go away.
If you are seeking self ligating braces treatment in Sandpoint, a few dental insurance plans may cover orthodontics, while others allow you to add orthodontic coverage to your dental plan. It usually covers a percentage of the braces cost. In addition, you can choose other financing options to make your treatment more affordable.
Most patients need to wear braces for 18 to 30 months. Treatment for more complex problems or our senior patients may take up to three years. However, if you have less severe problems or are a good candidate for clear aligners, we can complete the treatment in as little as six months.
Remember to take care of your braces, including consuming nutritious foods and avoiding hard, crunchy, and sugary items. Too many sugary meals while wearing braces can cause plaque accumulation around your brackets, which can discolor or hurt your teeth in the long run.
You need to avoid eating certain foods when wearing braces to prevent complications. For example, popcorn kernels get stuck in brackets far too quickly and can be difficult to remove. Instead likewise, chewing on ice or hard/sticky candies can cause braces to bend or break. In addition, don’t bite into fruits like apples and eat them sliced.
Brushing and warerpick requires more attention and effort to clean the food thoroughly from and around your brackets. You can also use an electric toothbrush for this purpose.
There is no fixed price for braces. Instead, Dr. Ballard will provide an estimate after carefully evaluating your teeth.
Dr. Ballard will remove your braces once your teeth and bite are properly aligned. After that, you must wear a retainer, except when brushing your teeth or eating. First, it will be for a certain period and then only at night. Most orthodontists recommend always wearing your retainers at night to keep your teeth in the appropriate position.
