In recent years, many advances in orthodontic materials have taken place. Braces are smaller and more efficient. The wires now being used are no longer just stainless steel. They are made of alloys of nickel, titanium, copper and cobalt, and some of the wires are heat-activated. These new kinds of wires cause the teeth to continue to move during certain phases of treatment. In addition, braces on the front teeth typically have only the bracket bonded directly to the tooth, minimizing the "tin grin". These "space age" materials advancements exert a steady, gentle pressure on the teeth, so that the tooth-moving process may be faster and more comfortable for patients.
You can express your individuality. Part of the fun of having braces is choosing different-colored elastics at each appiontment. You can celebrate your school spirit, choose black and white for Halloween or select any number of fun colors that shows your style.
Brackets on braces can now be clear make treatment nearly invisible. The polymer-brace is translucent making it one of the most popular aesthetic choices in braces today. A popular clear braces is the 3M Unitek Clarity Braces.
Successful orthodontic treatment is a "two-way street" that requires a consistent, cooperative effort by both the orthodontist and patient. To successfully complete the treatment plan, the patient must carefully clean his or her teeth, wear rubber bands, headgear or other appliances as prescibed by the orthodontist, and keep appointments as scheduled. Damaged appliances can lengthen the treatment time and may undesirably affect the outcome of treatment. The teeth and jaws can only move toward their desired positions if the patient consistently wears the forces to the teeth, such as rubber bands, as prescribed. Patients who do their part consistently make themselves look good and their orthodontist look smart. To keep teeth and gums healthy, regular visits to the family dentist must continue during orthodontic treatment. Adults who have a history of or concerns about periodontal (gum) disease might also see a periodontist (specialist in treating diseases of the gums and bone) on a regular basis throughout orthodontic treatment.
Most people have some discomfort after their braces are first put on or when adjusted during treatment. After the braces are on, teeth may become sore and may be tender to biting pressures for a few days. Patients can usually manage this discomfort well with whatever pain medication they might commonly take for a headache. The orthodontist will advise patients and/or their parents what, if any, pain relievers to take. The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface of the braces.
2. Patients must not chew on pens, pencils or fingernails because chewing on hard things can damage the braces. Damaged braces will almost always cause treatment to take longer.