Braces work by continuously applying pressure to the teeth for a certain period of time to slowly slide them in a certain direction. The problem is, the stirrup works quite slowly. Most brace users want to know when the braces can be removed. Follow the instructions below so that you remove the braces as quickly as possible.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Choosing a Treatment Strategy
Step 1. Start early
Children should get a dental check-up at age 7 to check for potential problems. It's best to start wearing braces when the permanent teeth are in, which usually occurs between the ages of 10-11 for girls and 13-14 for boys. The younger the teeth, jaw and facial muscles, the faster treatment can be completed, which means less time with braces.
Step 2. Consider aligner therapy (ALT) in lieu of conventional edgewise braces (CEB)
Metal edgewise braces utilize stainless steel bonding to the teeth to apply precise pressure to move the teeth into place. The aligner is a clear, strong plastic material designed to fit snugly into each wearer's mouth. Like conventional metal braces, aligners work by applying pressure over time. The difference, however, is a series of aligners that you must wear each for three weeks. Aligners are not very prominent and research has shown that they can reduce the time of wearing braces.
- The price of aligner braces is more expensive. Depending on your situation, the reduction time in braces may be reduced slightly, or not at all. So, consult with your dentist before deciding which braces to choose.
- Unlike metal braces, aligners can be removed making them great for taking pictures, etc. However, these braces must be worn for at least 20 hours to be effective. However, if you are concerned about your child wearing aligners, please opt for metal braces.
Step 3. Consider accelerated orthodontic treatment if you are an adult
Since the jaws and teeth of adults are already developed, it takes a long time to move them. Low-power laser therapy and corticotomy, as well as micro-osteoperforation, have all shown good results in adults.
- Low-power laser therapy is performed by directing short bursts of low-frequency light at the jaw to increase the production of osteoclasts, which are cells that demineralize the bone blocks in the jaw and accelerate tooth movement. This treatment also reduces pain.
- Corticotomy is done by making small incisions in the bone around the teeth to speed up their movement. This method is often combined with an alveolar graft (a graft of demineralized bone over an incision) in a technique called Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics. This step is proven to be able to reduce the use of stirrups by up to 1/3.
- Micro osteoperforation is similar to corticotomy, in that it uses a tool to create much smaller perforations in the bone. This increases the production of osteoclasts, helps demineralize hard bone and accelerates tooth movement.
Step 4. Consult with your dentist to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various treatments
Be careful with the Acceledent method, which is a tool that is being heavily promoted, and works by creating micro-vibrations that are meant to speed up tooth movement. This method is very expensive, and recent research shows that Acceledent does not shorten the life of braces.
Part 2 of 2: Following the Dentist's Directions
Step 1. Follow the dentist's advice
The time it takes for braces to work varies from person to person, depending on the severity; available space in the jaw; the distance the tooth will travel; oral health level; and how obedient the patient is to the instructions given. This is where your biggest role is!
Step 2. Maintain oral hygiene
Hygienic mouth allows teeth to move to the right position faster.
Step 3. Cut solid food
Cut up foods such as raw vegetables, fruit, and crunchy bread to reduce the stress on the braces while eating and prevent them from breaking.
Step 4. Try not to eat hard or sticky foods
These foods can damage braces and teeth. Some foods to avoid include:
- Popcorn
- Peanut
- Chips
- Chewing gum
- confectionery
- Caramel
- Cake
Step 5. Stay away from soda or other carbonated drinks
These drinks damage the teeth and prolong the life of the braces.
Step 6. Try not to chew the ice cubes
This will damage the stirrup and teeth.
Step 7. Do not chew objects such as pens or straws
This also damages the braces. Keep non-food items out of your mouth.
Step 8. Quit habits like nail biting or playing with the elastic in your stirrups
Both will push the teeth out of line so that the life of the braces can increase.
Step 9. Download the app
Research shows that orthodontic applications can help people take better care of their teeth. Try entering the keyword “orthodontics app” into the app search box.
Step 10. Consider using an electric brush for 15 minutes a day
Recent research has shown that this device can speed up tooth movement and reduce the life of the braces.