Orthodontics in Calgary
Resolving Bite Issues
If you have chewing problems, soreness and discomfort in your mouth, then orthodontic treatment can help. Complex bite issues like crooked, crowded, or protruding teeth, can become more uncomfortable and cause oral health issues if not treated.
Traditional braces can correct facial irregularities, straighten your teeth and improve the functionality of your bite. Our dentists in Calgary can assess your bite and recommend any needed orthodontic treatment.
When your teeth are correctly aligned, you may find it easier to brush and floss them effectively. This means you can have a reduced risk of tooth decay, cavities and other issues.
Improved tooth alignment can also have you smiling more frequently. You can worry less about crooked teeth and feel more confident with a straighter, healthier smile.
Dental Braces
Dental braces are often made from titanium or stainless steel. These materials can hold up over time and are less prone to rust. Braces are also made of ceramic to create a more transparent look and offer an option for people with metal allergies.
Braces consist of wires and brackets affixed to the teeth's surfaces. They create a consistent force on the teeth, gradually guiding them into their desired positions.
This sustained pressure leads to the gradual movement of the teeth. This prompts the surrounding bone to adapt and reshape itself to accommodate their new alignment.
Braces FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions our dentists at Canyon Creek Dental Clinic commonly receive about braces.
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How do braces straighten teeth?
Braces put continuous pressure on teeth over time, gradually shifting them into their new, corrected positions.
As pressure is applied and the teeth move, the alveolar bone changes shape to adjust to the new positions of the teeth.
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How will my braces look on my teeth?
Your braces will appear differently on your teeth depending on the type you choose. For example, ceramic braces are clear and have tooth-coloured brackets made of polycrystalline alumina. The connecting wire may also be tooth-coloured to further decrease their visibility.
Metal braces use are made of medical-grade stainless steel and may have transparent or coloured brackets. You'll be able to choose the colour of the brackets to match your preference.
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Do braces hurt?
Braces will not typically cause your teeth to hurt. However, you may feel some mild pain or discomfort for a few days after your orthodontist places or adjusts your braces, wires and/or expanders.
This is because your teeth are starting to realign and will need some time to get used to the pressure of the elastic ties and archwire. Applying wax or silicone over your braces may help alleviate some discomfort and irritation on the inner cheeks and lips.
Your cheeks and lips may need a week or two to get used to the braces on your teeth after they're first placed.
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How long will I need to wear braces?
The duration of your treatment with braces will depend on the nature of your orthodontic issue and how long it will take to realign your teeth.
Braces are designed to shift your teeth into their proper positions as prescribed by your dentist. Most people who undergo orthodontic treatment with braces typically wear them for about two years.
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How can I prevent cavities while wearing braces?
Plaque and food particles can get stuck in the wires and brackets. If not cleared away, they can contribute to tooth decay and cavities.
Maintaining an excellent oral hygiene routine is vital to ensuring your orthodontic treatment is successful. This means brushing up to five times a day - after every meal and before you go to bed. You should also floss once per day to be sure that you're removing plaque, bacteria and debris from between your teeth.
You may want to use an electric toothbrush, an interdental brush and/or a water flosser to help clear food bacteria and plaque away.
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What can I eat with braces?
You'll need to take special care of your braces and avoid eating any foods that can damage them. However, you'll still have lots of dietary choices with braces. Here are some foods we recommend eating, and some to avoid:
Foods You Can Eat With Braces:
- Breads: Pancakes, soft tortillas, mufffins without nuts, pancakes
- Dairy: Pudding, yogurt, soft cheese, milk-based drinks
- Fruits: Fruit juice, bananas, apple sauce
- Grains: Soft cooked rice, pasta
- Vegetables: Beans, steamed spinach, mashed potatoes
- Meat & Poultry: Soft-cooked chicken, lunch meats, meatballs
Foods to Avoid With Braces
- Hard foods: Hard candy or nuts
- Chewy foods: Licorice or bagels
- Crunchy foods: Ice, chips, popcorn
- Sticky foods: Chewing gum, caramel candy
- Foods that require you to bite into them: Carrots, apples, corn on the cob