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Jul 06, 2023
Crooked and uneven teeth may seem like a minor issue, but they can seriously impact our confidence levels. Misaligned teeth can interfere with an individual’s self-esteem and make them hide in their cocoon.
Besides affecting the person’s appearance, crowded or irregular teeth can affect biting and chewing, leading to other health issues. Misalignment of teeth is also known as malocclusion and can be treated successfully.
Dentists use orthodontic devices called braces to bring uneven teeth into their desired positions for the perfect bite and smile. These have been used traditionally to boost the functionality of asymmetrically positioned teeth.
Let us help you understand how misaligned teeth can be fixed with braces. It will give you an insight into their importance in orthodontic procedures.
Can Misaligned Teeth Be Fixed With Braces?
Yes, misaligned teeth can be effectively fixed with the help of metal braces that are fixed in the mouth. Dental braces and retainers push the uneven teeth into their correct positions by applying constant pressure.
They can be used to treat misaligned teeth in all age groups. They are made from metal, ceramic or wires and have recently been transformed into clear aligners that can be removed and inserted back into the mouth.
Braces can fix alignment-related issues affecting the jaw, such as spacing, open bites, underbite, overbite, overcrowding, gum disease due to crooked teeth, inability to bite and chew foods properly, and speech-related problems.
Types of Braces Used for Correcting Misaligned Teeth
There are different types of braces, and expert dentists Hope Island prescribe them based on the condition of the teeth and the age of the individual. They are customised according to the needs and jaw size of the individual. These include the following:
- Metal Braces
As the name suggests, these braces are made from stainless steel and come in brackets, bands and wires fitted over teeth to bring them in the correct position. Individual brackets are fixed to each tooth by the dentist with the help of glue, and a wire is placed across them.
The wire is held in position with the help of bands made of elastic. Metal braces are overly visible and may not be preferred by individuals who are concerned about their appearance.
However, many youngsters carry them confidently and add a hint of colour to them by getting colourful elastic bands. They can also be attached to the backside of the teeth to stay hidden. These braces are known as lingual braces.
- Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are the same as metal braces. Only the material is different. They are made of tooth-coloured ceramic instead of steel, which makes them less conspicuous. However, they are easily visible from a shorter distance because of their shape and appearance, which differs from natural-looking teeth.
Also, they get damaged because ceramic is a fragile material compared to steel. Individuals with braces have to be extra careful about oral hygiene and keep their mouths clean to avoid food getting stuck in the brackets.
They must visit the dentist every six months to get the device checked and the health of the teeth examined.
- Clear Aligners
The most popular braces are clear aligners because of their aesthetic appeal. They are transparent trays customised to fit the upper and lower jaw of the individual. They help to straighten misaligned teeth and can be removed easily. They are made from plastic and are also known as invisible braces.
The only downside is that they must be removed while eating to avoid damage to the material and be cleaned regularly. Dentists in Hope Island recommend them to adults and teenagers because jaw bone development is still progressing in children.
Individuals with minor misalignment problems are ideal candidates for Invisalign, while those with major alignment issues need braces.
When Is the Right Time To Get Braces?
Braces can be used to treat misaligned teeth of any age group. However, it is best to get braces between nine and fourteen years because the jaw bone is developing and can be fixed faster. On the other hand, straightening teeth can take time because the bone is completely developed and becomes stiff.
The duration of the treatment also depends on the number of irregular teeth in the jaw. If just a few teeth need to be straightened, the treatment can be completed in a year. However, if the entire jaw is misaligned, correcting it can take up to two years.
What Are the Benefits of Fixing Misaligned Teeth?
Besides enhancing your appearance by creating the perfect smile, the orthodontic treatment for misaligned teeth helps to improve biting. It ensures proper chewing and speaking. Aligned and symmetrical teeth do not allow bacteria to breed in the crevices created by crooked teeth and thus reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Wrapping Up
Braces are highly effective orthodontic devices that can help correct misalignment of teeth. Dentists recommend the treatment after examining the condition of teeth and prescribe the type of braces that can successfully push your teeth into the right position.
