You may have seen everyone from young children through adults in mid-life wearing braces. It’s not unusual because nearly 9 million people each year are treated with some kind of orthodonture–usually braces. If you aren’t sure how braces work, here is some important information you need to know.
What Are Braces?
Braces are usually made of metal brackets with wires connecting each bracket. Sometimes, brackets can be ceramic, especially if you are aiming to make your braces as close to invisible as possible. Dentists tighten the wires on your braces to rearrange your teeth.
Braces have been around for thousands of years, but the modern era of braces began in France in the early 19th century. A dentist began using a set of brackets and wires to move teeth. Dentists found that when they used metal and wires to move teeth, their patients were happier with their smiles, and they didn’t have jaw pain.
How Do I Know if I Need Braces?
Only a dentist can decide whether you may need braces or not. However, there are some things you can look out for that may signal you need braces. First, are all of your teeth spaced well? Are any of your teeth crowded close together, or are there large gaps between your teeth?
Also, you may be having tooth or jaw pain that may happen due to your bite. People can have overbites, underbites, or crossbites. Crossbites can be difficult to fix without braces because your teeth are not meeting when you close your mouth. You might develop pain in your jaw because of your bite. A dentist would be able to tell you if you have a malocclusion or a bite problem.
If you aren’t sure whether or not you might need braces, you can always come in for a consultation with a dentist. They will be able to determine if braces are right for you.
