Are you thinking about getting braces? Dr. Joseph Reed of Arlington Texas says it is never too late. These days, adults make up nearly half of orthodontic patients hoping to finally get the perfect smile they’ve always dreamed about. So many people get braces as adults. It is more and more common than ever!
In his office in Arlington Texas Dr Reed wants you to know that braces have evolved considerably in the last 15 years. Breathe easy, the days of being a true “metal mouth” are over and more lightweight and cosmetically friendly options are out there.
Today metal brackets are smaller and we don’t use all the bands or appliances that wrap all the way around your teeth like we used to. Now, we use bonded brackets that are a lot smaller or the clear braces that are a lot more cosmetic as far as their appearance
Case Studies
Why get Braces?
Dr. Reed wants you to know that Many people don’t know that Malocclusion – crooked teeth – can actually lead to difficulty in cleaning and flossing and eventually to tooth decay.
But why now? Your teeth and smile are the first thing that people notice when they see your face. Why let crooked teeth be their first impressions.
Starting with braces at an early age is the best first step. This way the roots of the teeth move and adjust quickly. But, it OK if you waited because it is never too late!
The Healthy Smile
Dental professionals say there are also health reasons for having a correct bite.
“With teeth that are in cross bite, teeth that are misaligned, there is an increased chance of plaque buildup, food buildup in between your teeth, which is a trickle-down effect because the more food buildup, the more plaque; therefore, the more concern for periodontal disease and gum disease” Web-MD
Metal Braces
In his office in Arlington Texas, General Dentist Dr. Joseph Reed places and cares for Traditional Metal Braces. His office sees people of all ages. It is unique to visit a General Dental Office for braces because in his Arlington Texas Office Dr. Reed can remove the arch wires and perform Dental Hygiene. This is helpful for cleaning the areas that are covered and hard to reach due to braces.
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces. More comfortable today than in the past, metal braces are made of high-grade stainless steel and together with archwires straighten teeth. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics for a more colorful smile.
Ceramic Brackets
Dr. Reed can also use Ceramic Brackets. These are typically more expensive but may be less noticeable. Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are less visible than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly for older teenagers and adults who have cosmetic concerns.
Invisalign Invisible (Clear) Orthodontic Appliances
Dr. Reed is a Premier Invisalign Provider. He has performed many cases using Invisalign Clear Appliances. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to straighten teeth. The aligners are comfortable and have no metal to adjust to during treatment. Since the aligners are removable, they also do not affect eating and do not require additional time for brushing and flossing.
Eating with Braces
What can you eat? Let’s talk about what you shouldn’t eat! If you’ve been wanting to drop a few pounds, the first week wearing braces is just your chance! For the first day or so, stick to soft foods. Avoid tough meats, hard breads, and raw vegetables. Before long, you’ll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you’ll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you’re wearing braces