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Metal Braces
We often recommend metal or braces for our younger patients, because there is a certain amount of responsibility required to keep track of and consistently wear removable braces. Your child may frequently forget or choose not to wear a removable clear aligner as often as they should, or they may lose them, which can affect their treatment plan and the overall cost. With metal braces, the wires are continuously adjusting the teeth over time and there is no way for a patient to lose them or forget to wear them. Meason Orthodontics uses Damon™ braces, which do not use elastic bands for tightening and offer a faster treatment time and less pain and discomfort for the patient.
Are metal braces right for me?
Metal braces are often recommended as the best treatment option for patients who have more severe orthodontic problems that can’t be addressed by Invisalign or other orthodontic treatments. If there are multiple teeth that need to be rotated or moved drastically, metal braces may be the way to go. If your orthodontic issues lean more towards mild or moderate, Invisalign might be the best choice for you. At your initial consultation, Dr. Meason will examine you or your child and can give a recommendation as to whether metal braces or another orthodontic treatment will be the best option.
If you need help deciding which orthodontic treatment will be best for you, our team will be happy to give you a personal recommendation. Schedule your free consultation with us today!
Do braces hurt?
When you first have your braces put on, you may experience some soreness and discomfort for the first couple of days. This is completely normal, and there are a couple of things you can try to relieve the pain. Applying dental wax to brackets that are causing soreness works well, and we also recommend eating cold foods like popsicles to numb the teeth and gums. You can also take over-the-counter pain medications, and if you’re still feeling pain after a week or two, our team would be happy to assess your braces and ensure that they fit properly.
What should I avoid eating with braces?
There are a few food restrictions that come with wearing metal or ceramic braces. Sticky foods like taffy, caramel, and gum should be avoided, as well as popcorn, corn on the cob, and other foods that get easily stuck in traditional braces. Crunchy foods like carrots and apples can be enjoyed if they are cut up and chewed with the back teeth. Every time a patient with braces eats something too crunchy or sticky, they risk bending wires, loosening bands, and losing brackets, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Do I have to wear a retainer?
Once your teeth have been straightened and your braces come off, you will have to wear a retainer to keep each tooth perfectly in place. If you get a removable retainer, we highly recommend that you wear it every night to prevent your teeth from moving back to their original positions. If you lose your retainer or go too long without wearing it, you may have to have your teeth straightened again before you can get a new one. Should you ever lose or damage your retainer, please contact our office as soon as possible so we may assist.
