When thinking of braces, the first picture that comes to your mind is that of a youngster proudly smiling with a shiny silver forming part of their teeth. However, that is quickly changing and will no longer be the case soon. It is now common to find people of all ages going for braces. One thing that’s making this procedure popular among people is the advancement of technology in the production and fitting of braces. For instance, you can just visit an Orthodontist’s clinic and book an appointment for a clear brace procedure. These braces have helped in doing away with the stigma that’s associated with the traditional braces that makes the mouth seem to be full of metals.
With clear and invisible braces, I am sure you won’t shy going for a procedure to realign your teeth. Interestingly, however much these braces seem to offer an excellent solution to the teeth alignment problem, not all cases warranty the procedure. Therefore, the question you should ask yourself is, are there factors I should consider before adding adult braces? The answer is yes, as discussed below!
Understand the brace teeth alignment options available
Just before you can decide to add adult braces, it is essential to consult with your orthodontist and find out if there are other brace fitting teeth alignment solutions available. The most important goal of talking to him/her is to ensure that you get a solution that’s fit for your lifestyle. For example, the orthodontist can advise you on whether to go for a removable aligner or a traditional brace that conforms to your teeth.
Remember, removable aligners (invisible braces) may suit you if your daily interaction involves working in public, or going for a business meeting where you keep meeting new people. You can detach these removable aligners whenever you have a special occasion, or when you deem necessary. For example, if you feel uncomfortable wearing these braces and you’re going to bed, you can detach them before going to sleep. On the other hand, if your lifestyle involves working with people who already know you and you are comfortable having a visible string on your tooth, then go for the traditional brace.
Your orthodontist can alternatively recommend clear braces, in case you don’t like the idea of attaching and detaching your brace from the teeth, and yet you feel uncomfortable using the traditional brace. The best thing you, therefore, need to do is to understand how braces work – you can read more about braces here.
Remember, all these are options available for your selection.
Consider your physical activity
You may be actively involved in sports. However, the bad news is that braces can cause severe damage to your mouth lining, cheeks and lips if you fail to take precautionary measures. Just imagine what will happen in case something or somebody hits your face, or you fall! Ensure you get access to mouth guard to protect you against injuries while sporting before you can go for a brace procedure.
Assess the availability and affordability of orthodontist’s services
Many times we want to straighten our teeth by using any of the three main bracing options, but the cost of undergoing that procedure is unimaginably high. Or in some cases, there are very few facilities offering the procedure. In that case, you need to assess the availability and affordability of the procedure. If you find it to be too costly, you can shop for cheaper alternatives or spend some more time saving for the procedure. Remember, the cost of switching orthodontist during treatment is extremely high, and you risk messing up the treatment. The bottom line is, from the word go; always seek the services of a reputable dental expert.
Prepare for the pain of fitting the braces
As much as not many people will tell you this truth, there is pain that comes as a result of installing the braces. Whereas many people agree that there’s not much pain during the fitting process, they also agree that you are bound to suffer some bits of pain as a result of the strain the brace exerts on your teeth. You are also likely to experience new sensations in your gums, lips, and mouth lining as a result of being new to braces, which will eventually result in soreness and aching.
As some previous users of braces have said, wearing a brace can be extremely hard to bear, especially if you find it hard eating, or you get persistent headaches or canker sores and so on. Therefore, before the orthodontist fits the braces, ensure you talk to them for advice on the side effects of the procedure and how to counter them. You then need to evaluate whether you are ready to face these pains on your way to achieving a perfect smile and a healthy mouth.
Consider the time the treatment takes – two years
On average, it takes two years to enjoy the fruits of undergoing brace treatment. The two years may sound as too much to you, especially if you are looking for a quick teeth alignment solution. However, if you can’t be patient for two years, there are other methods you can use to straighten your teeth. Remember, these other methods that involve minor surgeries have their negative side and are suitable for patients whose teeth are incredibly healthy and robust. You, therefore, need to prepare psychologically for this treatment journey before you’re fitted with the braces.
Consider the consultation fees the Orthodontist’s charges
Most Orthodontists are available for consultation at no fee. However, other clinics will charge you a small fee to go in for consultation with the Orthodontist. You, therefore, need to give priority to clinics that offer consultations for free so that you cast your net wide to enable you to settle on the best possible brace fitting treatment procedure. Bear in mind that this procedure is a relatively long-term project; you, therefore, need to choose the provider that won’t disappoint you carefully.
Assess the payment options accepted by the provider
Most medical covers exclude paying for the dental procedure. In other cases, the insurance policy requires that you co-pay your dental procedure costs. Even with that, most insurers have a list of accredited Orthodontic facilities where their subscribers can obtain services. If you have a cover for dental procedures including brace fitting and treatment, ensure you choose a provider that’s to perform the procedure by your insurer. Alternatively, if you are paying for the procedure using other means, maybe through credit card or PayPal or Due, ensure that method of payment forms part of your Orthodontist’s accepted means of payment.