Why modern braces are a much less daunting prospect than traditional versions.

Braces used to be a terrifying prospect for children, especially with children elaborating fabricated stories about how they could go wrong and how much they hurt to wear.

Luckily, over recent years, braces have actually become quite trendy, and believe it or not, some children are actively requesting them even when they don't need them! Of course, we would never recommend a child has braces unless it is medically necessary, but if they do need them, a positive attitude is fantastic and we love it when children leave us smiling after a fitting.

However, no matter how trendy they are, and how well our Egham dental staff have explained the procedure, some children can feel hesitant and worried about their brace fitting. This is normal, and often comes from a simple fear of the unknown. If a child is worried about a brace fitting we recommend they visit our local Egham dental clinic and simply talk to our staff about their worries, before they are due to get their braces fitted. We are a family friendly dentist and we have lots of ways to make them feel comfortable and confident in their dental care.

Alternatively, or as well as, we thought a few Q&A's about the actual fitting might also be useful if you have a child getting their braces soon:

How long will the fitting take?

This does depend on each individual child, but we would always allow between one and two hours.

What Happens During The Procedure?

Your teeth with be thoroughly cleaned and dried before a bonding glue is applied to your teeth. The dental brackets are then attached and all you will experience at this point is a slightly unpleasant taste. After this is done, the arch-wire is applied and the secured using elastic. This procedure may vary depending on the patient's needs, individual circumstances and the type of braces which are being used.

Is It Painful?

Getting your braces applied won't hurt you, but your mouth and teeth might be a little tender for about a week afterwards. This soreness is natural and isn't painful, just a little uncomfortable.

How Should I Deal With Any Soreness?

Avoid eating anything challenging and opt for soft or mashed food like mashed potatoes, soup, ice cream, boiled eggs - that sort of thing. You should also avoid anything acidic like fruit juice or tomato sauce, particularly initially when the mouth is still getting used to the braces and may be a little sore. We also recommend you don't fiddle with the braces or touch any sore spots in your mouth. If you do experience any soreness, your pharmacist will be able to advise about soothing gels which can help and you can also call into the practice for advice too.

How Long Will It Be Before I Am Used To My Braces?

A lot of our patients come back to our Egham dental clinic after about a month for a quick check-up and are completely happy and used to their braces. Sometimes it takes a little longer but it is important to persevere.

'Invisible' Braces As An Option

Whilst many still opt for traditional "wired" braces, clear "aligner" braces are becoming increasingly popular. These are clear plastic trays which exert gentle pressure on the teeth, gradually moving them to the desired position. Depending on your age and the type of teeth straightening you need, these discreet modern braces my be ideally suited to you. Please ask our team for more information.

Please Call Crown House Dental, Egham For More Information

If you would like any information at all about getting braces, or you have recently had braces provided by us and need advice, please call us on 01784432641 and we will be very pleased to advise you.