Braces are dental tools used to correct tooth problems like crooked teeth, crowding, or correct teeth that are out of alignment. Braces are not just for teenagers but also adults too. Braces are used to help straighten and align teeth so you can maintain a normal bite.

When we face tooth problems we often ask ourselves, how long does it take to get the braces on? What do I expect when getting my braces?

Getting braces in most cases can last for 1 – 2 hours for the entire procedure. However, some factors can greatly influence the amount of time needed to get the braces on. These factors include the type of brace and severity of the tooth alignment.

Many people often wonder what it would feel like to get braces. They are curious about how painful the procedure is, and how long they would be required to wear them. If you are also pondering those questions then you’re smart, because knowing what the procedures entail makes the process easier. In today’s guide, you will find all the answers you need to make you comfortable as younger braces.

Is the procedure painful?

When you’re getting your braces, you will feel little or no pain during the procedure. However, you may have a slight sore afterward. Randwick Professional Orthodontists use braces to exert a gentle force on your teeth as part of the treatment process, and this can make them more sensitive than usual. Hence, if your braces are not applied correctly, you may feel serious pain afterward. The pain from correct brace application is not permanent, they are usually short-lived and can be properly managed.

How long do I need to wear braces?

Everyone has their unique dental problems and requires different treatment procedures, hence, different people would require a different length of time before their tooth is properly corrected. There are many factors which are considered when getting braces and these factors determine how long we would need to wear the braces. Some of the factors which determine how long we wear our braces include;

• Patient’s age
• The extent of teeth misalignment
• Pre-existing skeletal and dental problems

After considering these 3 factors, the accurate duration of your assigned braces can be determined.

Types of Braces

When you’re ready to go meet an orthodontist, it is good to get proper knowledge of the different types of braces available, to help you make a better choice of which braces to get. When selecting the type of braces you want, you should also know the braces prices for each type, and discuss with your orthodontist about your chosen selection.

Let’s take a look at the different types of braces you can choose from:

• Metal Braces: These braces are the less expensive braces available on the market. They are made from traditional metal brackets and wires. Some are colored bands while others are clear bands.
• Ceramics Braces: Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces in terms of size and shape. However, they blend in with the natural color of your teeth. They are more expensive than metal braces and correct your ailment faster than metal braces.
• Lingual Braces: These metal bracket braces are placed on the inside of your mouth. Hence, they are not easily seen. Lingual braces are more expensive than metal braces.
• Invisalign Braces: This brace is in the form of an invisible plastic mouth guard that is made to fit your teeth perfectly. It’s mostly used by children and can be replaced weekly.

Orthodontists advise on how to take care of your teeth to ensure successful treatment

• Brush your teeth twice a day (morning and night) or after eating
• Rinse your teeth frequently to remove food debris
• Floss once a day
• Visit your orthodontist for regular adjustment
• Visit your dentist for semi annual cleanings
• Follow the laid-out instructions for removable or adjustable appliances like rubber bands, clear aligners, headgear, or expanders.
• If your braces break, visit your orthodontist immediately.
• Do not eat sugary, crunchy sticky, or hard foods
• Avoid sugary or carbonated beverages
• Do not try to fix your broken braces, visit your orthodontist