Dental braces are not a recent treatment solution, attempts to correct the vicious positions of the teeth have existed since ancient times. In the 18th century, the Frenchmen Pierre Fauchard and Louis Bourdet laid the foundations of modern orthodontics. Treatment with various fixed orthodontic appliances is popular and increasingly well accepted by people. We will try to review the essential things you need to know about these devices, in order to understand the stages of the teeth straightening process and to be able to make good decisions about the treatment you will follow.
What are fixed dental braces?
The fixed dental braces is a special construction, which is applied to the vestibular or lingual surface of the teeth. This type of orthodontic appliance can be metal or ceramic. The jaw straightener can be worn at any age. Fixed orthodontic braces can be worn at any age, starting from 6 years. Orthodontic treatment with a fixed brace does not only have aesthetic benefits, it improves the health of the teeth as a whole. On average, a dental braces treatment lasts between 1.5 and 2 years, depending on the complexity of the case.
The fixed metal or ceramic orthodontic braces is the most common and most effective type of brace used in modern orthodontic treatment, providing the best results. As a general principle of use, the fixed orthodontic brace consists of small brackets that stick to the surface of the teeth, being joined by means of springs. For molars, the classic treatment uses cemented metal rings, but the doctor can also use attached tubes similar to brackets, this technique reduces the degree of patient discomfort and facilitates access to those areas for the purpose of sanitation.
How jaw straightening braces work
To understand how dental braces work, it is important to be familiar with their basic components. The fixed dental braces is an orthodontic device made of brackets, rings and springs. It is a set of elements that are fixed, glued or attached to the teeth. It may contain some appendices, depending on the complexity of the treatment and the dental problems.
The fixed orthodontic appliance works by exerting pressure on the teeth, which has the effect of moving the teeth into the desired positions.
The first consultation with the dentist consists of thorough investigations and an X-ray. After this, the orthodontist will create a treatment plan adapted to the patient's needs. During the session, based on the investigations, the type of fixed or mobile orthodontic braces are recommended. The first week is the most difficult of the entire treatment. The first effects of the device are felt in a few hours through a more or less tolerable pain. In order to more easily overcome this period of adaptation to the fixed orthodontic appliance, it is recommended:
- Consume soft, liquid foods that do not overload your teeth, and thus subject to mechanical stress (soups, pureed foods);
- If the pain is persistent, you can take an analgesic;
- Avoid sweet, cold or hot foods, because at this stage the teeth show a degree of hypersensitivity;
- If the brackets or the ends of the bow cause injuries to your lips or cheeks, ask the doctor for special wax for protection.
While wearing the dental appliance, there are only a few rules that you must follow and that will ensure the success of your treatment:
- Avoid hard, crunchy foods (nuts, seeds, seeds, pretzels) or those that bite (apples, carrots);
- Avoid sticky foods and chewing gum; Maintain impeccable oral hygiene to prevent cavities and bad breath;
- Braces they retain food residues very easily, that is why it is advisable to use the right toothbrush, dental floss and mouthwash in your daily oral hygiene; go for regular medical check-ups in the dental office, approximately every 1 month.
Types of fixed dental appliances
The most common question among patients is how much do braces cost? Of the existing types, fixed braces are the most affordable. Periodically, dental clinics present discounted offers on dental appliances. They are of several types: with metal, ceramic and sapphire brackets.
Dental braces with metal brackets and springs
This is the most common fixed orthodontic appliance solution. The device is made of high quality steel. This device is the most affordable method for straightening the jaw. From an aesthetic point of view it is less preferred by patients. Teenagers, however, opt for this possibility. The advantages are low price, short treatment period, increased durability. The disadvantages are: the appearance of gingival irritations, discomfort in the first weeks of treatment and the less esthetic appearance
Dental braces with ceramic brackets
Fixed ceramic braces are an excellent alternative to the classic metal orthodontic brace, but offering similar advantages to the latter. It represents an aesthetic solution in terms of dental appliances, being little visible compared to the metal orthodontic appliance. Ceramic brackets are durable. The advantages are: it offers an aesthetic image, reduced visibility compared to the metal device, greater efficiency and comfort. The disadvantages are: the elements can change their color, they are more expensive.
Dental braces with sapphire brackets
Sapphire braces are a discreet and elegant alternative. Such braces are an ideal aesthetic solution for ensuring optimal oral health, while also guaranteeing a bright smile. Under conditions of optimal hygiene, the braces do not cause changes to the enamel, which remains intact. Each crystal is carefully polished to create an incredibly transparent and extremely durable item. Once applied, sapphire is almost invisible on the teeth. The advantages are: the elements of the sapphire device are invisible, comfortable to touch and to use. The only downside is the higher price.
At DentArbre clinic (Bucharest) you can benefit from the following prices (fixed orthodontic braces):
Orthodontic consultation + Orthodontic treatment plan – 200 lei
Price of metal braces / arch – 2200 lei
Price of ceramic braces / arch – 3000 lei
Price of sapphire braces / arch – 3500 lei
Damon dental appliance price / arch – 4000 lei
*Offer valid until 30.09.2024
Orthodontics does not only involve wearing braces to improve the appearance of the teeth, but also to improve certain functional problems that may be caused by misaligned or damaged teeth. For some adults, the idea of wearing a brace to straighten the jaw can seem quite problematic. However, with the advancement of dental technology in recent years, there is now the option of choosing between traditional braces (such as metal, ceramic or sapphire) or modern systems (such as invisible braces).