It’s not uncommon to see people who need to use the well-known orthodontic braces, whether for health reasons or even for aesthetic reasons. But how can you know exactly when they should be used or not? Are there downsides to wearing this type of braces? How long does a person need to wear them? Is it possible for the process to be painless? Because of all these questions that are quite common on the subject, we have gathered in today’s text all the information you need to learn more in-depth about orthodontic braces. So, if you’re interested in the topic, read on!
What are Orthodontic Braces?
First of all, it’s important to clarify what we’re talking about. Orthodontic braces, also known as dental braces or teeth braces, are a type of device used by dentists to correct various problems related to teeth alignment. These issues may be health related, such as when someone has difficulties chewing, for example, or even for aesthetic reasons, when someone wants a straighter smile. There are different types of orthodontic braces, but the most commonly used by dentists and the one we most frequently see in daily life is composed of several parts:
- The orthodontic wire, which connects all the teeth to correct misalignments
- The brackets, which are small pieces that help to move and reposition the teeth, when necessary
- The bands, which keep the teeth in a certain position, especially the molars; the famous rubber bands, known for coming in various colors and
- The elastics, which are used only in some specific cases.
Whatever the reason, the truth is that this type of braces is usually a very effective tool to correct certain problems and, practically, to solve malformations in a relatively easy way.
The History of Orthodontic Braces
Over 200 years ago, in 1819, the French physician Gaston Delabarre invented the first metal wire that connected the teeth, based heavily on studies by previous doctors who had already discussed dental malformations. However, the popularity of dental braces as we know them today took time. It was only in the middle of the last century that dentists developed the braces equipped with brackets, steel wire, and also the bands connecting the other parts. Until the mid-1970s, using braces was still seen as very complicated, both in practical terms and for social reasons, since the device had extensions outside the mouth, which discouraged many people from using it. After the advent of the appliance as we know it nowadays, studies have advanced significantly, and several other types of orthodontic braces with more specific functions have emerged, as well as models that are increasingly discreet.
Who Needs to Wear Orthodontic Braces?
As we’ve already mentioned, the use of orthodontic braces can be for various reasons, from problems that directly affect a person’s chewing and breathing to purely aesthetic concerns. Some of the main problems that lead someone to need dental braces are:
- Crossbite
- Misaligned jaw
- Open bite
- Spaced teeth
Of course, orthodontic braces can be used in many other situations, but these are certainly the vast majority. 
How Long Should Orthodontic Braces be Worn?
This is a question that doesn’t have a simple answer, since each case requires a different type of treatment, and different devices or even parts may be used, depending on the treatment. However, we can talk about average usage times. A “common” problem, like a crossbite, for example, can take between 18 and 20 months to be fixed. Of course, depending on the case, this time can be longer or shorter. However, it’s most common not to use orthodontic braces for less than 8 months or more than 30 months.
Do Orthodontic Braces Hurt?
It’s important to keep in mind that when you get orthodontic braces, they will act on your teeth to realign and shift their position. This can inevitably cause some discomfort and even pain in some cases. However, the most common occurrence is that this pain only happens during the first few days, when the patient’s mouth is not yet used to the tension created by the braces. This pain tends to decrease with time. So, if that’s a concern you have, don’t worry. Someone using orthodontic braces can live a completely normal and pain-free life. It’s worth mentioning that, when the first appliances of the style we know were created in the mid-1950s, the pain used to be more intense.
Care When Wearing Orthodontic Braces
Although you can have a normal, pain-free life, using orthodontic braces does require some special care to prevent other problems. These precautions include:
- Avoid eating very hard foods, as these can break parts of the braces
- Remember to brush the device when brushing your teeth
- Rinse your mouth before and after brushing to keep the device clean
- Visit your dentist regularly so that proper maintenance can be done
- Avoid any blows to the mouth area, since the device can cause even greater injuries
- Avoid putting objects in your mouth, like pens, for example, which can break parts of the device
- Avoid sticky foods like chewing gum and caramel
All these are simple actions but make all the difference in keeping your appliance from being damaged and ensuring your treatment is truly successful. Wearing orthodontic braces is extremely common these days, but, as we have shown here, it wasn’t always well accepted by everyone. The truth is, with advances in technology and dental studies, using this type of device has become much more comfortable, easier to maintain, and also more affordable, which is very important for more people to have access to it. Taking care of your teeth is taking care of yourself. Therefore, if a dentist recommends you use braces, it’s important to take this advice seriously to avoid bigger problems in the future.
