Orthodontic Braces

Orthodontic treatments are necessary not only for aesthetic purposes but more importantly for good oral and dental health. Malocclusion, if not corrected, can cause worse problems such as:

• Cavities and tooth decay- Crooked and crowded teeth are harder to clean than aligned teeth. Improperly cleaned teeth can trap bacteria and cause dental problems such as cavities and tooth decay.
• Improper jaw development – If teeth are growing in the wrong place, the jaws are impeded in their proper development. Additionally, an uneven bite, which affects chewing and speaking, can cause wearing of the tooth enamel and can lead to worse jaw problems.

Braces and aligners are devices designed for straightening crowded or crooked teeth, as well as a misaligned jaw (malocclusion). Orthodontic treatments move your teeth by applying pressure on them for a long period of time. Eventually, your jaw gradually adapts and conforms to the applied force.

Contrary to common notion, the teeth are not connected directly to the jawbone. There is a membrane underneath our gums surrounded by bones that connects the teeth to the jaw. The membrane is flexible and responsive to pressure, making the teeth move when orthodontic treatments are applied.

The simple answer is no. It’s never too late to get braces and your bite can still be corrected in adulthood. However, there are some benefits in getting braces at an earlier age than later in life.

During the adolescent stage, the development of your jawline and its underlying tissue are still moving until adulthood. Your teeth would respond quickly to pressure from orthodontic treatments at a younger age, and would take longer for older patients. It is best that you get advice from our specialist orthodontists in Dubai to know the right orthodontic treatment that suits your age and condition.

• Brush and floss – Good oral and dental hygiene is important especially when you are wearing braces. Brushing and flossing on a regular basis will help keep your braces in good condition and avoid stains on your teeth. Your orthodontist may recommend you to use a special toothbrush designed to clear through the surfaces of your braces. For aligners, you need to remove them when brushing and flossing.
• Avoid certain foods – Chewy and crunchy foods are the enemies of braces as they tend to get stuck in between the wires. Fruits and vegetables could be tough on your braces, too, unless you cut them in small pieces. For aligners, there are no food restrictions but you need to remove them when eating.
• Visit your orthodontist regularly – Schedule follow-up appointments for the adjustment and checking of your treatments and address any concerns you have while wearing them. Dental visits are essential to keep your orthodontist updated with the developments in the treatment so proper advice and guidance will be given.