What should I know about getting braces?

[PiratePirate]

Hi everyone!,

 

I've recently decided to get braces to fix up my smile a little bit because I currently have a underbite and some crowding on the bottom portion of my teeth. My teeth look pretty good, but they could be better. I would like to know the answers to a few basic questions, since I'm not really knowledgeable about braces at all.

 

 

 

How much can braces improve a smile? For some reason I can't get a big smile without forcibly stretching the sides of my mouth. Maybe it's because of the underbite or the jaw?

 

How much time does it take if my teeth relatively straight?

 

About how much do braces cost? Range?

 

What kinds of things should I consider when choosing an orthodontist?

 

Any new fangled technologies besides headgear and all that metal?

 

 

 

 

Thanks! I am definitely planning to get braces, so I just want to be a bit more informed. I realize I should probably see an orthodontist as advice on teeth depends on a case by case basic, but a general low down would be great.

 

Thanks!

[veneratio]

Make sure you go to a private orthodontist. I go to a non-private one and they never explain why they're doing what or how/if I'm improving because they have so many clients.

[Newo Ikkin]

Yes, I'm sorry if others disagree but seek a private practice. I've had baaaaaaad experiences with the NHS.

 

It can take, on average, from 6-18 months. Sometimes longer.

 

Remember, the orthadontist will know your mouth BETTER than you. They will see flaws that you cant. An underbite or jaw problem is better to get fixed to save long term hassle.

 

Where do you live? (if you dont mind me asking)

 

No headgear anymore, lol! Traintracks or tubular, normally. Some are very dicrete!

[PiratePirate]

Hrmm.. private practice... I'll have to see if my university's insurance covers that... how does one go about finding a good private practice? I'm hoping braces can do wonders for a smile...

 

Ikkin: i live near San Francisco...

[Newo Ikkin]

Ahh...dammit, not too clear on American practices. But I'm sure they're pretty much the same as the UK.

 

You can: google orthadontic practices near you. ask around for recommendations at uni. GO WITH YOUR GUT INSTINCT.

 

Make sure the practices recommended/practices you find:

-Keeps you informed as to what treatment they're undertaking

-Keeps you informed on the progress of your teeth, continually

-STICKS TO THE SAME ORTHADONTIST (Mine changed every other flaming month due to 'unforeseen circumstances')

-Is clean and respectable. The obvious one.

[New_Horizons]

It took me two years to get my braces off (20 to 22 years old) but my teeth were fairly crooked to begin with. I would estimate 12 to 18 months for you. My smile has definitely improved although the interim period was a pain in the backside (and in the mouth for that matter). But it's worth it!

[Newo Ikkin]

Agreed, New Horizons. Every ache and pain is worth it in the end. Or so I'm hoping!

[Newo Ikkin]

Lets hope he doesnt get the Italian lot, Sheyda...