Types of Braces for Teeth:
There are several types of braces available in the market, they have been developed keeping in mind the age of the patient, issues the patient has such as crooked teeth, misaligned teeth, overbite conditions, etc. The braces are exclusive: made specifically for the patient on case to case basis.
Depending upon the type of use, the Braces can be classified under 4 categories, which are:
Metal Braces: The ever visible conventional braces generally constructed of very high-quality stainless steel brackets and an archwire which goes through the brackets to apply a uniform force which moves the teeth in the required fashion.
Ceramic Braces: The kind of braces are made up of white ceramic wires and brackets which are as strong as steel but are invisible on teeth and hence provide a, visually appealing, no braces look.
Lingual Braces: They are also known as inside braces since they are attached to the inside of teeth. They work similarly to metal braces with a wire and bracket but the pressure is applied on the inner surface and leaves the outer surface without any traces of metallic smile.
Clear Aligners: One of the most modern solutions in orthodontic issues. They are just like transparent mouth guard which athletes from combat sports, wear. They are efficient and comfortable as well. They are designed specifically for your teeth and help to move them gradually into place. Since they are removable trays, patient can eat and clean their teeth regularly as usual.
Teeth Braces Age Limit: It is generally believed that Braces work only for kids and adolescents. However, you will be surprised to know that 1 in every 5 patients for orthodontic treatments are above 18 years of age. Although, the ideal orthodontic treatment age limit to have braces is usually around 12 or 13 since at that time the teeth are not fully grown and bone formation is still under process. American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation around 7 years of age so that the jaws and teeth are easily manipulated, and significant dental and/or skeletal issues can be corrected without aggressive treatment. Such Timely evaluation tends to result in faster, easier comprehensive treatment when they’re teenagers. Many adults now require braces. As age advances, there are changes in jaw positions and arrangement of teeth.
Food habits with Braces: The most common concern with braces is Food. Parents of young patients generally face problems with food habits and cleaning. This is due to the fact that Braces do require Dietary changes. These changes are necessary for the following reasons:
1. To Protect The Braces From Damage:
Braces can be damaged with hard and chewy foods and hence it is recommended to eat soft food with braces. Breads, Cooked Veggies, Pulpy fruits can be eaten easily, however, hard and chewy foods like, nuts, chocolates and candy should be avoided.
2. To Reduce The Risk of Stained Teeth:
Some Foods like Caramel, soft drinks have high color and acids and thus can cause staining on teeth. These stains will be more visible after the removal of braces and hence should be avoided. Foods with sweeteners erode the enamel of teeth, making them yellow-ish and hence should be avoided. Young patients should strictly be discouraged from chewing upon pencils or hard stuffs. Also nail biting should be avoided since these practices may damage the braces. The following table will give you a detailed idea of what to eat and what to avoid during braces.
Food to Avoid:
1.Candy, Caramel 2. Chewing Gum
3. Whole Apples or Other Fruits 4. Hard puri/ Chakari/ Soyastrick 5. Soft Drinks/ POP/ Soda 6. Pizza Bread/ Crust 7. Anything with dried Fruits, Nuts or Other Seeds 8. Popcorn
