Your Journey to a Beautiful Smile at The Centre for Invisible Orthodontics
Thinking about braces to transform your smile? At The Centre for Invisible Orthodontics, we understand the desire for a straighter smile and the questions that come with braces. Dr. Stephen Grussmark, a leading orthodontist in Miami, FL, is here to guide you on your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile.
Call (305) 441-1200 to learn more about braces and schedule an appointment.
What Are Braces?
Braces are orthodontic appliances used to straighten teeth and correct bite problems. They work by applying gentle, constant pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into their ideal positions. This can improve your smile’s aesthetics, but braces also offer several functional benefits, such as:
- Improved chewing: Properly aligned teeth distribute chewing forces more evenly, making it easier to eat and reducing stress on your jaw joint.
- Clearer speech: Misaligned teeth can sometimes affect speech patterns. Braces can help improve pronunciation and enunciation.
- Reduced risk of dental problems: Crowded or misaligned teeth are harder to clean effectively, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Braces can help prevent these issues by making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
Types of Braces
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most traditional and widely used type of braces. They consist of metal brackets bonded to each tooth and a thin metal wire threaded through the brackets. Dr. Grussmark tightens this wire at regular appointments, gradually applying gentle pressure to move your teeth into their desired positions.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces offer a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal braces. They function similarly, with brackets bonded to each tooth. However, the brackets are made from tooth-colored ceramic material, making them less visible on your teeth. Ceramic braces are a good choice for patients who are concerned about the appearance of braces but still want a highly effective treatment option.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are similar to traditional metal braces, but the brackets are bonded to the backside of your teeth instead of the front. This makes them completely hidden from view when you smile. However, they can be more expensive than traditional braces and may cause some initial speech impediments as your tongue adjusts to their presence.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces use a clip or a small door mechanism to hold the archwire in place, eliminating the need for elastic ties. This can lead to shorter treatment times and fewer adjustments than traditional braces.
Adjusting to Life with Braces
Getting braces is an exciting step towards a straighter smile! But it’s natural to have questions about adjusting to life with them. Here’s a quick guide:
- Oral Care: Brushing and flossing become even more important with braces. Use a soft-bristled brush and a flossing tool to navigate around the wires and remove trapped food particles.
- Diet on Braces: Say goodbye to hard, chewy, and sticky foods that can damage your braces. Embrace soft options like yogurt, soups, and cooked vegetables. Cut harder foods into bite-sized pieces.
- Daily Activities with Braces: Most daily activities won’t be affected by braces. However, be mindful when playing musical instruments that involve mouthpieces, as you might need to adjust your technique.
- Sports with Braces: If you participate in sports, wearing a mouthguard is crucial to protect your teeth and braces from impact.
- Speaking with Braces: You might have a slight lisp when you first get braces, but this usually improves within a week or two as your tongue adjusts to the new presence in your mouth.
Caring for Teeth with Braces
Braces don’t mean sacrificing your smile! Here’s how to keep things clean and prevent problems:
- Brushing and Flossing: Brush twice daily for two minutes with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste, angling it at 45 degrees to clean around the braces. Consider an orthodontic brush for better maneuverability. Use a floss threader to floss beneath wires.
- Dietary Do’s and Don’ts: Stick to soft foods like fruits and yogurt. Cut harder foods into small pieces. Avoid sticky candy, nuts, and sugary drinks.
- Extra TLC: Use a fluoride rinse, maintain regular dental checkups, wear a mouthguard for sports, and practice good oral hygiene habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to live with braces on?
Wearing braces takes some adjustment, but it’s not necessarily hard. There might be some initial discomfort with this orthodontic treatment, especially after getting your braces on or tightened. However, this usually goes away within a few days. Your orthodontist can provide tips to manage soreness and make the process as smooth as possible.
How long until my teeth stop hurting from braces?
Any soreness you experience is usually temporary and should subside within three to seven days. Using pain relievers, warm salt rinses, and eating soft foods can help during this time.
Do braces change face shape?
In some cases, braces can slightly affect your facial profile, but this is usually a positive change. Braces work by moving your teeth, which can sometimes lead to a more balanced and defined jawline. Dr. Grussmark will discuss any potential changes with you during your consultation.
Why can't I bite down with braces?
Braces and wires are designed to gently move your teeth. Biting down on hard foods can damage the brackets, wires, or even your teeth themselves. Sticking to soft foods and cutting up harder options helps prevent any complications. Avoid chewy foods and crunchy foods, as this may trap plaque and food particles in your braces. Use dental floss to remove any particles.
Discover All You Need to Know About Braces with Dr. Grussmark
The Centre for Invisible Orthodontics is here to guide you every step of the way during your braces treatment. Our team of experienced professionals, led by Dr. Stephen Grussmark, a Diamond Plus Invisalign provider, is dedicated to creating personalized treatment plans and ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
Ready to get started? Contact The Centre for Invisible Orthodontics in Miami, FL, at (305) 441-1200 to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve the confident smile you deserve!
Serving patients in Miami and surrounding locations such as West Miami, Coral Terrace, and Westchester.
