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.

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.
What are the different kinds of braces?
  • Braces have evolved over the years. The modern day braces are smaller and have contours that are more comfortable for the tissues
  • Some braces move teeth while certain other appliances are used to mold the jaws during the growing period
Some braces that could mould the jaws
Jasper Jumper. It is a appliance that moulds the jaw Herbst appliance to mould the jaws
  • The most common type of orthodontic braces is the metallic type. They are steely in appearance and are used extensively.
  • However if you are bothered of the looks the orthodontist would fix for you ceramic braces or plastic braces that are tooth colored and therefore not noticeable. These of course are more expensive and you have to shell out some more money.
  • If you are young at heart and want to show off your braces then you should have the colored or fluorescent braces.
  • Gold braces are also available for the classy who want nothing but the best.
Braces that move the teeth - metallic and ceramic
Metalic braces Ceramic braces
Steps in treatment
  • It takes several appointments before the orthodontist places the braces.
  • In the very first appointment the orthodontist gets familiar with you and asks a few questions to assess what your problem is. This is done by interactive questioning or by giving you a history form that you have to fill up. The history goes a long way in the final diagnosis.
  • Once the history is taken the orthodontist examines you and tries to find out whether you require braces. He looks at your face and also into your mouth to diagnose your problem and arrive at a tentative plan of action called the tentative treatment plan.
  • The next appointment is often a few days later when a number of records are made. It includes
    1. Impressions
    Impressions of the mouth are taken with a paste to make a model of your teeth. This helps the dentist to visualize your bite from all angles. The impression is made of both your upper and the lower teeth.
    2. Panaromic X rays
    They are special X rays that are used to see the inside of your jaws, teeth and the jaw joints. This is taken in a machine where you stand still and an X ray machine goes around you. These X rays are highly informative for your dentist  and help him in the overall treatment planning.
    3. Cephalometric X ray
    In simple words this is an X ray that tells your dentist about how your jaws are growing.
    4. Photographs
    Most orthodontists take pictures of yourself and your bite before starting treatment. These pictures are taken from different angles and serve the dentist in keeping track of how the effects of the treatment are unfolding.
  • Once the records are made the orthodontist arrives at a final diagnosis and treatment plan. He would discuss the plan with you and advice you regarding his fees.
  • You would then be scheduled for fixing of the braces.
Cephalometric X ray
Panaromic X rays
Model of your teeth
Cephalometric X ray

 

 

[Home] [Know your teeth] [Know your dentist] [Orthodontics] [Pediatric Dentistry] [Periodontics]
[Restorative Dentistry] [Endodontics] [Prosthodontics] [Oral Surgery] [Dental emergencies]
[Myths & facts in Dentistry] [Dentart]

---------------------------------------------©32teethonline.com. Dr. Bhalajhi Sundaresa Iyyer----------------------------------