There are many reasons why adults should wear braces such as the possibility of teeth movement at any age due to health condition, natural growth, etc. In this condition, they should wear braces in order to avoid serious problems with their teeth. Regardless of the reasons, when you have to wear braces you have to make sure the type of the braces that suit your treatment. There are at least three main types of braces:
1. Braces made of metal, which is the most usual kind of braces. Unlike the previous ones, current metal braces are smaller in size and more comfortable to wear but look more attractive. This kind of braces is made of high-quality stainless steel.
2. Braces made of ceramic. This type of braces is a popular type especially for adults who pay more in the aesthetic. They are made of clear, translucent material. The weakness of this type of braces is that it is not durable and more breakable, easily discolored.
3. Clear aligners with customized plastic aligners can gradually move teeth positions to their correct places. No wonder because they are made through simulation of computer to achieve the best results. Since these aligners are almost invisible, many adults like this type of aligner therapy very much.
Usually, the team of orthodontist will help patient to choose the best type of braces that matches with their needs and preferences.
What are the tips for adults wearing braces?
This first thing to remember is that you must pay full attention to keep the braces from decay or stains.
While most people just need to brush their teeth twice a day, those wearing braces must brush their teeth right after every time you eat, in the morning, in the afternoon or even at night.
Why should you do that? How to take care of the braces?
The reason is that food particles can easily be trapped in the braces, which can cause some risks if the particles stay longer there. So, you have to be a little bit choosing in deciding what to eat.
Firstly, you can rinse your mouth with water. The purpose you do this is to release the food trapped in and around your braces.
Secondly, brush your mouth at the downgrade angle on top of the brackets. Then brush again but this time is at upgrading the angle.
Thirdly, floss your mouth at least every day. You have to make sure that flossing is done either between the braces or under the wires.
Floss threader can help you floss more easily. As an alternative, you can use orthodontic flosser, which is easy to find at at drug stores.
There are two kinds of floss, namely waxed floss and unwaxed floss. The first ones slides between your teeth more easily than the unwaxed floss.
What kinds of foods should be avoided?
Basically, any kinds of food with too much sugar or starch, since those foods can result in plaque built up around the brackets. Plaque can stain the teeth and finally you will suffer from gum disease. In addition, avoid gummy and fibrous foods, such as caramel, dried fruits or corn because they can get stuck inside the braces. Once they get stuck, it is harder to remove them. Any kinds of ‘hard’ foods such as nuts, ice, popcorn which may break the braces’ wires or slacken the brackets.
