Braces SpecialistFrisco, TX

A Braces Specialist Explained

A braces specialist completes two years of additional training in orthodontics beyond dental school. This schooling focuses on fixing jaw issues and teeth alignment, making them knowledgeable in applying braces to straighten teeth. A specialist often continues their training through additional courses and seminars to stay current on the latest developments in orthodontics.

A braces specialist or orthodontist is skilled in treating a wide range of maxillofacial issues. An orthodontist uses their training to treat the following:

• Bite issue such as over or underbites
• Jaw pain including TMJ pain
• Speech problems caused by oral health habits
• Overcrowding of teeth or spacing issues

These are just a few of the issues braces treat. An orthodontist can apply their skills to improve more than just the cosmetic issues caused by misaligned teeth but also the oral health issues they cause as well.

Benefits of Seeing a Braces Specialist

Most people are familiar with the cosmetic benefits of braces. Straighter teeth lead to more confident smiling. The alignment of your jaw can even affect the shape of your profile. Many patients are thrilled with how treatment with braces improves their facial profile.

Though an improved appearance is a huge plus, braces have more to offer. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, and teeth that are easier to clean lead to a reduced risk for gum disease which supports better overall health for the whole body. This is a benefit everyone can gain from wearing braces. Others gain improvements in how they chew and speak. If a misaligned bite is causing jaw pain or headaches, patients can find relief through seeing a braces specialist.

The Process of Getting Braces

Treatment begins with the initial consultation where patients share their medical history with the braces specialist and present any questions they have about the process. A model of the patient's teeth is made using the iTero® Digital Impression System, meaning there is none of that gooey putty material in the mouth that so many dread when having impressions taken. The braces specialist will explain what to expect from treatment at this appointment.

The appointment during which the braces are placed is usually one to two hours. A week before this appointment, the braces specialist may insert spacers between the patient's molars to make room for the metal bands the archwire is anchored to. The orthodontist will glue a bracket to the center of each tooth and slide the metal bands around the back molars. Then, the practitioner will attach the archwire, typically with a small rubber band on each bracket. This process may vary depending on the type of braces the patient chooses.

How to Care for Your Teeth with Braces

Patients can expect to wear full braces from one to three years. During this time, the patient will need to make a few lifestyle adjustments. They will need to avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that can get stuck to or damage braces. Most of those who wear braces only need minor changes to their daily routine.

Oral hygiene becomes more crucial with braces due to the food particles and plaque that can build up around the braces. Patients will need to brush every time they eat, floss daily, and use a fluoride mouthwash. While flossing can prove challenging, floss threaders, interdental brushes, or a water flosser can make cleaning between teeth easier.

Aftermath of wearing braces

One of the most important parts of life after braces is wearing a retainer. Teeth typically try to return to their original positions and a retainer gives them time to set into their new positions. The amount of time one needs to wear a retain varies widely but patients can typically expect to be wearing one at all times for about six months. Retainers come in three styles:

• Fixed or Bonded Retainers: As the title suggests, they are fixed or bonded in place and cannot be removed. They are commonly used on the backside of the bottom teeth.
• Hawley Retainers: These removable retainers made of acrylic and metal wire are typically used for the top teeth. The acrylic is shaped to fit the roof of the mouth and the wire runs along the outside of the upper front teeth.
• Clear Plastic Retainers: These removable retainers are molded to fit the teeth in their new position. The are made of very thin plastic and look very similar to clear aligners, which fit over the top and bottom teeth.

After six months, the orthodontist often recommends the retainer be worn only at night for a year or two. There are situations in which practitioners will recommend wearing retainers in some capacity for longer. Patients should consult with the braces specialist about what best fits their situation.

Schedule a Visit Today

Price Family Orthodontics wants you to love showing off your smile. If you are considering seeing a braces specialist, we are happy to answer your questions. Call our office at 972-528-5519 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Braces Specialist

How many checkups happen during treatment?

You can expect to have a checkup every four to eight weeks while wearing braces. The total number of appointments depends on the length of treatment. These appointments are much shorter than the initial one and tend to be 20 minutes or less.

Are braces painful?

Any discomfort reported with braces is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter medications. The metal wires or brackets can sometimes irritate the inside of the cheeks. If this happens, patients can use dental wax on the brackets or wires and contact their orthodontist for further advice.

Is the glue used to attach braces to the teeth toxic?

The glue may have an unpleasant taste, but it is not toxic. Our team makes every effort to ensure the patient is comfortable during this process. After the glue is applied, the orthodontist shines a special light on the glue to set it before the placing the bracket.

What is the iTero® Digital Impression System?

This is an impression system that replaces the traditional impression-making method involving putty. The orthodontist uses a small wand to scan the inside of the mouth with a radiation-free laser. The process typically takes 3 minutes and results in a 3D digital model of the mouth.

What types of brackets will the orthodontist use?

There are many types of brackets. Typically, a patient can choose between metal or ceramic brackets that will be attached to the archwire with small rubber bands that are usually changed at each checkup. The ceramic brackets are closer to the color of teeth and less noticeable. Another choice is a Damon™ bracket. These brackets are smaller and do not require rubber bands to attach to the archwire.