Braces FAQ

If you're a parent considering dental braces for your child, you likely have a lot of questions about how these work, and how these will help your child.   While questions about dental braces can be extensive, here are a few answers to basic queries that should set your mind at ease.

OK, what exactly are braces and what do they do?
Braces are removable or fixed appliances that are fitted to the teeth, to enable the teeth to move slowly from their current position to their desired position.  How do they do this?  Well, the components of your braces work together beautifully to produce these results.  These components include brackets that are attached to each tooth, metal bands or glue that help the brackets adhere to the teeth, a wire that helps exert the pressure that is needed to move the teeth, and  a ligature elastic that helps the bracket hold on to the wire.  When the wire exerts gentle, but firm, pressure on the brackets and the teeth, the teeth are forced to slowly move to their desired position.  

Are these used only to boost appearance?
Well, braces are primarily used for cosmetic purposes, but they also offer very tangible health benefits to the wearer.  For instance, crowding of the teeth may impact your smile, but more harmful than that is the effect it has on oral hygiene. When your teeth are aligned properly through braces, then you find it easier to clean your teeth properly, thus fending off gum disease and tooth decay.

When is the best time to get started with braces?
The best time to begin orthodontic treatment for your child would be during the growing years, when development is still ongoing, but the adult teeth have come in.  For girls, the best time to begin wearing braces is between the ages of 14 and 18 years.  For boys, the ideal time for orthodontic treatment to begin is between the ages of 12 and 21.   The difference is because the development period for boys continues till about 21 years.

Are braces painful or uncomfortable to wear?
Initially, your child may feel some amount of discomfort, but as he gets used to the braces, this will pass. Ask him to inform you if he feels any pinching or cutting that may occur because of a sharp wire.  These can be adjusted by your orthodontist.  There may be some amount of discomfort when the orthodontist adjusts the braces every month, but this is only temporary.

Can my child eat normally?
There may be a few restrictions like hard foods, sticky or chewy foods like caramel etc. Your orthodontist will tell you about these. Otherwise, there are no restrictions on diet.

How long will he have to wear the braces?
Treatment may continue for a period of one to three years.  Your child will be required to visit the dentist every month for adjustment of the braces.

What happens when the braces come off?
After the braces come off, you child will be fitted with a retainer, which is an appliance that is meant to be worn for a period of between 6 months and one year.  The retainer prevents the teeth from moving back to their old position, and solidifies the effects of the braces, making them permanent.