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Dental

Braces for Adults —Overcoming the Stigma

Adults in Manassas have recently begun to realize the importance of braces. It is because of various reasons such as enhancing their oral health, boosting confidence by having improved aesthetics, etc. 

Braces are not only used for straightening the teeth but are also used for a variety of purposes. For instance, it helps fill the gap between teeth, corrects crooked teeth, etc. 

Braces are popular among children as well as adults. Almost twenty percent of the population in the United States wear braces to fix their dental problems. Usually, braces are put on by an orthodontist. 

However, some general dentists can perform the procedure, too. Braces shift your teeth back into their position. The process can be gradual but effective. 

The most common type is made of metals. It might be recommended that you avoid having hard food items as they can disrupt your metal brackets. 

Dental practice in Manassas, VA, can offer you many dental benefits and help correct your dental issues. 

What are the different types of braces?

You can get a particular type of braces depending on your dental needs. Let us look at some of the types:

Ceramic braces(clear braces)

Ceramic braces are a good option for those who want to improve the aesthetics of their teeth. They are usually made in the same color as the natural teeth. 

Therefore, they are a good option for those who might be conscious about the appearance of their smile. Ceramic braces add to the aesthetics and blend with your existing teeth. 

They are not entirely invisible but are still less visible than metal braces. The only disadvantage of ceramic braces is that they can break easily and are not as strong as metal braces. 

Self-ligating braces 

Appearance-wise, they look similar to metal braces. The difference between self-ligating braces and metal braces is that they have a built-in system. That is what keeps the wire in place. There is no elastic band involved. 

Lingual braces (not visible to others)

Ceramic braces

They are also similar to traditional braces. The difference is that they go on the back side of the teeth instead of being put on the front. 

Usually, people who go for lingual braces do so because they are not really detectable by others. Thus, they add to the aesthetics.

Clear aligners (invisible braces)

They can be used as an alternative in place of traditional braces. There are no wires involved. Instead, trays are used to correct misalignment. 

Among the popular ones is Invisalign clear aligners. Metal brackets are not removable, but clear aligners are. You can remove them when needed. For instance, when you have to brush your teeth or floss, you can remove them. 

Then, you can put them back on once you are done. Clear aligners have functionality, purpose, and aesthetics and are easy to manage as well. 

How can you benefit from braces?

  • You get a better-looking smile with straightened teeth.
  • You can also get rid of cavities and possible gum diseases that may arise otherwise.
  • Disorders such as TMJ (temporomandibular joint) can also be dealt with. 
  • You can also restore the functionality of your teeth.

What are the food items you can easily have with your braces?

  • Vegetables that are cooked.
  • Pastas 
  • Eggs, but they should be scrambled. 
  • You can also have soups. 
  • Yogurt is also okay to have.  
  • Fruits that are not hard.

Avoid having nuts as they have hard shells. Furthermore, sticky food is also good to avoid. Caramel is also not good to have with braces or other crunchy vegetables.

When should you consult your dentist?

If you are having persistent pain that is not manageable with medication, consider consulting your dentist. If your gums are bleeding or your wires are broken, it is not a good sign. 

Therefore, contact a skilled dentist in Manassas. Improve your aesthetics, functionality, and overall health.

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