When we think of braces, young children and teens tend to be the first demographic that springs to mind. However, in recent years, there has been a surge in adults up and down the UK who are choosing braces to get the smile they’ve always wanted. A great smile and straight teeth can boost
your confidence, self-esteem, and help you think more positively.
If you have decided that braces are the right option, you need to do your research before starting treatment. To end up with straight, aligned teeth, here are seven important things to know beforehand.
Begin with a Free Consultation
When it comes to getting braces, there are lots of providers to pick from. As all of them will want your custom, you should start by having a free consultation with a couple of orthodontics. It’s likely that you will have tons of questions before starting treatment, such as how long it will take to
achieve the perfect smile and what past experience they have. Above anything else, your orthodontist must have excellent communication skills and be there for your every need.
Age Doesn’t Matter
Whether you’ve just turned 18, are enjoying your 20s, have settled down in your 30s, or are facing a midlife crisis in your 40s, there are thousands of adults who are reaping the benefits that braces can bring. There is no shame in getting braces in this day and age. So, whether you opt for fixed braces that stay permanently on your teeth, or prefer ones you can remove, no one will bat an eyelid if you’re wearing braces.
Prepare for Discomfort
Regardless of what treatment you choose, removable and fixed braces will equate to some level of discomfort. While having braces isn’t considered a painful experience, you will notice some discomfort as you get them adjusted. If you do experience any pain, there are lots of tips that can
help you on your journey and get you through to the other side with little to no problems. Usually, an over the counter painkiller is all you’ll need.
Work Out a Budget
Whether traditional metal braces catch your eye, or you like the idea of invisible aligners, you need to work out your finances in advance before beginning treatment. Your orthodontist may provide treatment price plans, meaning you won’t have to foot the bill all in one go. If you want to know
more, Straight My Teeth have a guide on how much braces cost, which can be found at the following link: https://www.straightmyteeth.com/how-much-do-braces-cost-in-uk/. If you’re wondering how do braces work, or which teeth braces will be best for you, Straight My Teeth is a great resource.
They have been running for two years, helping thousands of their patients achieve a straighter, whiter, and better smile.
You Still Need to Visit Your Dentist
When wearing braces, you may forego dental appointments. However, this is a common mistake that too many people have made in the past. Although your dentist and orthodontist do different work, they share the same goal in improving your oral health. Your braces treatment will run more
smoothly if your teeth are regularly checked over and cleaned by your dentist. If you have a phobia of the dentist, there are lots of strategies that can reduce stress levels and help you get the most out of your treatment.
You Must Wear Your Retainer
Once your braces treatment is finished, there is still one more step to go. You must wear a retainer afterwards. If you don’t, you run the risk of your teeth shifting and moving back to their original place. Should this happen, all the money and discomfort you’ve endured will be for nothing. No one
wants to be unhappy with their smile, especially after paying out so much money. So, make sure you listen to your orthodontist and dentist and take good care of your retainer.
You Will Need to Alter Your Diet
There are dietary changes you must make to get the best results out of your braces treatment. We all know how important it is to follow a balanced diet. So, if you’re currently eating tons of junk food and sugary treats, know that they can be damaging to your teeth, increase the risk of gum disease,
and get stuck in your braces. There are some foods that can break your braces and put your treatment on hold too. So, it’s best to avoid hard sweets and opt for healthier alternatives instead. If you follow your orthodontist’s advice regarding your diet, you will notice numerous benefits in your
general health and wellbeing too, such as improved energy levels.
If your end goal is to have straight teeth, you must go through the process of having braces first. Depending on the type of treatment you opt for, there are all kinds of things you need to take into account first. Whether you want fixed braces or removable ones, maintaining excellent oral hygiene
from start to finish is key for success.
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