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Getting yourself bracketed
So you want a beautiful smile with straight teeth, and have decided braces could be the way to go
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S
o you want a beautiful smile with straight teeth, and have decided braces could be the way to go. Before you make an appointment with your dentist, better have some ideas on what procedures you’ll generally have to get your teeth bracketed.
1. Your dentist will ask you some questions about your motivation for wearing braces.
2. Your dentist will consult with you and inspect your teeth visually. If braces are appropriate, a records appointment is prepared where X-rays, molds and impressions are made. These records
will be analyzed to determine the problems and appropriate further action.
3. Treatment starts. Your braces will be applied to your teeth using dental cement and then cured with light until hardened. An arch wire will be threaded between the braces and affixed with elastic or metal ligatures.
Decorate your smile: Braces can look more fun with shapes like hearts, flowers and stars, while the color can also be customized to gold and silver colors. www.wildsmiles4you.com
You must see your dentist for a checkup every three to four weeksYou will be asked to increase the frequency of brushing your teeth and a use a special flosser or tooth brush. Your doctor will also ask you to stay away from popcorn, ice cubes and other hard and sticky foods such as candy, caramel and bubble gum to avoid causing a loose wire or bracket. You will also be advised not to use your front teeth to bite into hard foods such as apples and corn.
After the treatment, you may need to wear a retainer, which is a small, hard piece of plastic with metal wires or a thin piece of plastic shaped like a mouth guard. Retainers ensure that your teeth don’t wander back to their original places.
Sources: Dr Ruby Karyadi, MPA and Dr Johan Arief Budiman, Phd., Sp. Ort.
— Dian Kuswandini
