Having crooked or misaligned teeth is something people do not want to battle. Besides compromising the quality of your smile, the quality of your bite may also be affected. So if your dentist recommends that you see a specialist for braces in Brooklyn, know that you are not alone. Millions of Americans wear braces to realign their teeth. Seeing a specialist for Brooklyn Heights Orthodontics has almost become a rite of passage for preteens and teenagers alike. If you are still weighing your options, the following facts might speed your decision to have braces.
Braces Do Much More Than Teeth Straightening
When your dentist refers you to an orthodontist for braces, the first thing that comes to your mind is a set of thin wires lining your teeth to correct misalignment and crookedness. While that might be the primary reason braces were invented, these devices do more than align teeth. Instead, the teeth alignment properties of braces enable them to prevent tooth problems such as decay, cavities, and gum disease.
Braces Keep Evolving in Terms of Technology
Traditional braces consisted of pink plastic and thin wire. Users needed to remove them from time to time. On the other hand, modern braces are transparent. They adopted space-age technology that relies on a transparent polycrystalline alumina (TPA) material to straighten the teeth. The transparent nature of modern braces makes it difficult for anyone to notice you are wearing them.
There Is No Age Limit for Braces
Pre-teens and teenagers are still experiencing growth spurts, including wisdom teeth. As a result, some of their teeth may invade space meant for wisdom teeth. However, you do not have to wait until your kid reaches puberty to get them braces. A kid as young as the age of six can experience abnormal bites. When you take your kid between the ages of 8 and 14 years old for a dental checkup and your dentist recommends braces, do not ignore the medical advice. In addition, modern braces for adults are also available. So if you have misaligned or crooked teeth, an orthodontist can design one for you.
An Orthodontist Can Prescribe Braces and Retainers
A general dentist’s role is to diagnose and treat oral infections, while an orthodontist specializes in preventing and treating teeth irregularities. Both dentists and orthodontists attend regular dental school. However, orthodontists pursue their careers for an additional 2-3 years. If your regular dentist refers you to an orthodontist to customize your braces, know you are in safe hands.
A Retainer Is Equally Important as Braces
After confirming that braces worked, an orthodontist prescribes retainers to prevent your teeth from relapsing. Some retainers are removable, while others can be permanently attached to your teeth. Your dentist will recommend the best option for you.
Now that you have understood how braces can transform your oral health, choosing a qualified professional to customize them is equally beneficial. Find someone who will resonate with your beliefs and who is willing to recommend other options. To find out if you need braces, schedule a visit to an orthodontist today.