The following dental information pages answers many questions that you may have on braces and orthodontic treatment. Orthodontist is a dental specialist who specializes in treatment using braces.

At what age should orthodontic treatment begin?

Although orthodontic treatment can be done at any age they are best carried out in young children of 8-15 years age. During this age it is possible for the orthodontist to foresee any dental problems that are likely to occur and can take preventive measures. This is called preventive orthodontics. It is also possible to intercept disorders of the bite at an early stage so that it does not mature to a big dental problem. This is called interceptive orthodontics. The jaws are actively growing by 8-10 years of age and therefore are the ideal time to mould the jaws. The permanent teeth start erupting by 6-7 years of age and complete erupting by 12-14 years (all except the wisdom teeth). This would therefore be the ideal time to start treatment.

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What happens if the treatment is delayed?

At an early age the braces are less painful and the treatment duration is shorter. Advancing age makes the jaws harder and therefore makes it difficult to mold the jaws and to move the teeth. As mentioned in the earlier section, in younger individuals it is possible to prevent and intercept the developing problems. But orthodontic treatment can be carried out at any age.

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How long does orthodontic treatment take?

The duration of treatment depends from person to person and from one orthodontist to other. Most jaw molding and jaw corrections carried out during the growing age takes 1-11/2 years. Orthodontic treatment with braces often takes 2 - 2 1/2 years. The orthodontist would advice you on how long the treatment is going to take after studying the case.

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How does orthodontic treatment work?

The jaws in a growing child can be molded by application of some pressure on them. They can be made to become bigger, longer, shorter, wider etc. by using appropriate type of braces.

The teeth that are embedded in the jaws can be moved around until they are in the right place by applying a force on them by using braces.

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Do braces hurt and cause sores in the mouth

Initially for a few days after the braces are fixed, the mouth tends to be sore and some pain can be expected. Much depends on the pain perception of the individual and his pain tolerance. However pain is expected for a few days after braces are fixed and every time your orthodontist tightens them. Sores may develop on the cheeks or lips or the tongue after the braces are fixed. These often heal in a few days. You can use orthodontic wax to screen an area of the braces that are sharp and hurting.

In addition warm salt water rinsing of the mouth help heal the sores. If the braces are damaged and therefore hurting the cheeks or lips you should immediately seek orthodontic consultation.

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Should sports activities be avoided?

Well having the braces should not prevent you from carrying on normal daily activities. However care should be taken during sports activities as you may fall and injure the mouth and teeth. Tell your orthodontist about your sports activities so that he prepares a mouth guard for you. The mouth guard should protect you from inadvertent injuries during sports. It is advisable to avoid contact sports such as boxing, wrestling, karate, judo etc where injury to the jaws and mouth can occur.

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Will I experience any difficulty in talking?

Most orthodontic braces do not interfere with talking. However the orthodontist may at times give you a removable plate to wear. This could cause difficulties in speaking for a few days. However you get used to it very soon and start talking normally.

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Are there any restrictions in eating when the braces are on?

Initially once the braces are fixed the mouth tends to be sore for a few days. During this period it is better to have soft food. You should be careful in avoiding hard, crunchy and sticky food such as toffee, nuts, chocolates and gums as they may break the braces that are fixed to your teeth. When you are eating fruits like apple make sure you cut them into pieces before you eat them. It is better to avoid meat with bones.

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Do the braces come off?

Sometimes a part of the braces comes off. This may occur when you bite on a piece of hard food. The orthodontist will then have to fix it for you. It is advisable to immediately seek an appointment if a part of the braces falls off. It is better to take care of the braces by following the do's and don'ts so that they do not break frequently as this delays the treatment.

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What happens if you swallow a loose piece of braces?

Accidental swallowing of a small piece of the braces that becomes loose usually does not cause any harm. They are likely to pass down the digestive tract and make their exit. However accidental inhalation is a more serious problem and may require medical attention to remove them. However such incidences are rare.