How Long Does It Take to Talk Normally with Braces

If you have had braces or know someone who has had them, then you know that deciding to get them brings changes to your life that may sometimes be unexpected. There is a lot of misinformation in this regard, and in this article, you will find accurate information that will let you know what to expect from this entire process. However, it is always a good idea to visit a braces dentist near you to clear up any specific doubts you may have.

What are braces?

Braces are devices that are placed on your teeth to fix issues related to alignment and bite. They work by exerting minimal pressure on your teeth for them to move in their desired positions. Nowadays, there are many different types of braces. The most common ones are made out of stainless steel. These are the traditional braces that we have all seen on people around us and in the media. There are other options such as ceramic braces that mimic the color of your teeth, and lingual braces that sit on the inside of your mouth, so they are undetectable when you smile.

What will change when you get braces?

The main thing that may be a little bothersome is the pain you will feel after each appointment with your dentist in Fort Myers. This pain is minimal and feels more like a pressure, especially when you bite on something. It is caused because on each appointment, your braces will be adjusted to apply more pressure on your teeth as they reach closer to perfect alignment. It will dissipate after a couple of days, and taking Ibuprofen will make it much more bearable.

Another thing you must keep in mind is that you will have to watch what you eat. Braces make it much easier for food to get lodged in your mouth, so you will have to pay extra attention to your oral hygiene habits. Brushing your teeth after each meal is a must, and flossing every day is more important than ever. You should also get an interdental brush that will let you clean up the sides of your braces, which may not be cleaned perfectly with just your toothbrush.

Will you talk differently?

This depends on each case and how much intervention you require to achieve a perfect bite and alignment. If you only need regular braces, then chances are you won't speak differently and if you do, it's because your mouth may be sore because of the braces. In this case, a little orthodontic wax could be placed on top of the bracket.

In some cases, additional appliances are needed before braces can be removed. This happens when there are problems with malocclusion. If this is the case, you might need a palate expander or elastics. The palate expander sits on the roof of your mouth and is connected on both sides to your molars. It can make it a little difficult to talk and can also cause some discomfort. However, it does wonders for correcting your bite. Therefore, the small annoyance is worth it because of the results.

Another appliance your orthodontist may use is elastics. These connect your lower molars to your upper front teeth or vice versa. Since they are bound to both your upper and lower teeth, they limit how much you can open your mouth and this results in some trouble while speaking. However, these are removable and you don't have to wear them at all times. You should keep in mind that these minor inconveniences shouldn't discourage you from getting braces in Fort Myers since the results will be worth it.