PRIMER ON BRACES Q: What is the value of braces? A: While their cosmetic role is obvious, straightening teeth into an orderly smile, there are other reasons for braces. Crooked teeth are harder to keep clean, a problem that can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and, down the road, tooth loss. Misaligned teeth can also be an impediment to talking and chewing and over time can cause abnormal wear on tooth enamel. Today's generation of braces, also known as orthodontic appliances, can be as visible or as inconspicuous as a patient likes. For instance some brackets, which are affixed to the tooth to hold wires and elastics, are clear or tooth-colored. Advances in the equipment also make braces more comfortable and more efficient than they were in the past. There are two basic categories of braces: fixed, which are installed and removed by the dentist, and removable, which the patient can put in and take out according to the dentist's instructions for duration of wear. A person generally will wear braces from one to three years, followed by a shorter period of wearing a retainer to hold teeth in place. Talk with your dentist about whether you are a candidate for braces. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL 1827061 PRIMER ON BRACES Q: What is the value of braces? A: While their cosmetic role is obvious, straightening teeth into an orderly smile, there are other reasons for braces. Crooked teeth are harder to keep clean, a problem that can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and, down the road, tooth loss. Misaligned teeth can also be an impediment to talking and chewing and over time can cause abnormal wear on tooth enamel. Today's generation of braces, also known as orthodontic appliances, can be as visible or as inconspicuous as a patient likes. For instance some brackets, which are affixed to the tooth to hold wires and elastics, are clear or tooth-colored. Advances in the equipment also make braces more comfortable and more efficient than they were in the past. There are two basic categories of braces: fixed, which are installed and removed by the dentist, and removable, which the patient can put in and take out according to the dentist's instructions for duration of wear. A person generally will wear braces from one to three years, followed by a shorter period of wearing a retainer to hold teeth in place. Talk with your dentist about whether you are a candidate for braces. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL 1827061