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Have you considered fixing your teeth in the past but were unsure if braces were the right option for you? Deciding to have orthodontic treatment can be discussed between you and your dentist. At Smile Center in Buffalo, NY, we take the time to work with you to determine what treatment plan is best suited for your individual needs. Whether it’s traditional braces or an alternative such as invisible aligners, we’ll get you started on the path to a straighter, healthier smile. Braces are an excellent option for addressing functional problems within the bite as well as aesthetic concerns such as crooked teeth.

What can orthodontic braces correct?

• Crooked teeth
• Overbite or underbite
• Gaps or spaces between teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Crossbite
• TMJ Problems

Traditional braces have stood the test of time… with a few improvements

When we mention the word “braces” to patients, many cringe because they have heard stories about how unsightly and uncomfortable, they were. They picture a metal wire with metal brackets on each tooth and the first thought is that they will feel and look clunky.

Luckily, modern metal braces are smaller and much more comfortable than in the past. The flat metal brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected with thin metal archwires. We use the archwire to gradually reposition teeth, utilizing the brackets as anchors. Throughout treatment, the root and crown of the tooth are moved into proper position to correct functional and aesthetic issues.

Life with braces

Once you decide to fix your smile with braces, it’s important to take care of them properly throughout treatment.

Eating with braces

There are indeed certain foods you have to avoid during orthodontic treatment, but if you take proper care of your braces, you’ll be enjoying snacks like popcorn again in no time.

In the first few days after receiving your braces, you’ll want to stick to soft foods as your teeth may be sore. After a few days, you’ll be able to incorporate more foods in your diet. You’ll also learn some tricks such as cutting up your food into smaller pieces and chewing with your back teeth.

Here are some foods that you should avoid because they could damage braces:

• Crunchy Foods – Popcorn, chips, ice, potato chips
• Sticky Foods – gum, caramel
• Hard foods – candy, nuts, pretzels
• Chewy Foods – Italian bread, bagels

It’s also important to avoid chewing on non-food objects such as pens, fingernails or using your teeth to open packaging. Not only is that bad for the tooth, but it could also cause the brackets to loosen or break.

Soreness with braces

It’s normal for your teeth to feel sore or tender for several days after you get your braces. Over the counter pain relievers can help with this. It’s also common for the inside of the cheeks or lips to feel irritated as they get used to the braces. A special wax can be used over the braces to minimize irritation as your mouth adjusts to the braces.

Loose teeth, wires, or bands

It’s normal for teeth to feel a little loose during orthodontic treatment. As the wires and brackets are adjusted, the teeth will need to loosen in order to move into the proper position. Once teeth are in the right position, they will no longer feel loose.

If the wires or bands loosen, call the office so that we can fit you in for an appointment to repair it. If the loose wire is cutting the inside of your lip or cheek, put some wax over it until you can get into the office

Fix your teeth today with braces in Buffalo, NY

At Smile Center, we want everyone to have a healthy smile that they feel confident about. Orthodontic treatment with metal braces is just one way we achieve this goal. If you are embarrassed by crooked teeth or bite problems, our team is here to help you. For individuals who wish to undergo more discreet treatment, we do offer invisible aligners. This type of treatment uses clear plastic trays that are swapped out every few weeks to gently reposition teeth. If you are in the Buffalo, NY area, give Smile Center a call today to learn more about your options to fix your teeth with braces.