How Fast Do Teeth Move with Braces?

Correct teeth alignment has many implications beyond just having a nice smile. Sure, it is nice to feel confident with your smile, but when your teeth are correctly aligned, they are also easier to clean, reducing the probability of developing tooth decay and gum disease. They can also influence your biting, chewing, facial appearance and even your speech. Thankfully, nowadays there are many options to align crooked teeth. Braces are one of the most popular ones. They have been helping people achieve a normal bite and a beautiful smile for decades and with great success.

What are braces?

Braces are devices that are placed on your teeth that exert a minimum pressure leading them to move in the desired direction. If you are considering getting braces, then you should schedule an appointment with a braces dentist near you. They will show you all the different types of braces available and tell you which one is better for you. In the past, only metal braces were available. These are very noticeable and some people avoid getting braces because they think of how they will look with this traditional type.

However, as time has passed science has advanced. In this era, you will find many other options that may suit your taste. Such is the case of ceramic braces which are tooth-colored or clear to blend into the teeth. You should keep in mind that this type is more expensive and requires good care since they can become stained. Another option if you don't like the appearance of braces, are lingual braces. These are traditional braces that are placed on the inside of your teeth. They won't show when you smile but are fairly uncomfortable and difficult to clean. Contact your dentist in Kissimmee to find out if they offer all these options.

How do braces work?

Sometimes we believe that teeth are cemented to our jawbone and that they don't move. However, this is not the case. Teeth are fit securely in their socket and that's why they don't move around all over your mouth, but beneath the gums, they have some room to move. Thus, when significant pressure is exerted on them, they can move to a certain extent. When you get braces, pressure is exerted on your teeth at all times and this sustained pressure makes the teeth move over time.

How long will it take?

It depends on each case. A dentist near you will be able to assess you and give you an estimate of how long you will need to wear braces for. This can range anywhere from a few months to three years. Keep in mind that certain things can modify this estimate, such as attending all of your appointments and taking good care of your braces.

Will it hurt?

You might feel a little pressure after each appointment because the pressure exerted on your teeth is adjusted. This could make it difficult to eat solid foods for a couple of days. However, if you are considering getting braces near you, then don't let this scare you away. The pain goes away eventually and you could use some NSAIDs such as ibuprofen to make it more bearable.

How do you take care of your braces?

First of all, braces make it easier for food to get trapped in your mouth. Thus, you must be extra mindful of your oral hygiene. You should brush your teeth after every meal, and floss every day. Also, you should avoid hard foods that can damage your braces, as well as popcorn and chewing gum since these can become stuck. Make sure to follow these instructions and soon you will have the most beautiful smile in Kissimmee.