Fast orthodontics with braces is a common treatment to correct dental problems. You may experience discomfort and pain in the first few days due to the pressure of the brackets. Chafing of the mucous membranes may also occur. Maintaining good oral hygiene and eating a soft diet can help minimise discomfort. Throughout treatment, it is important to follow proper cleaning and care recommendations. If you have any questions, please see our frequently asked questions about fast orthodontics with braces.
What is rapid orthodontics with brackets?
Fast orthodontics with braces is a dental treatment that aims to correct malposition and align teeth effectively and quickly. It is a popular and effective option for improving the appearance and function of the smile.
Concept and benefits
Fast orthodontics with brackets involves the use of brackets to apply controlled and gradual pressure on the teeth, allowing them to move and correct their position. The brackets used can be made of different materials, such as metal or ceramic, and are bonded to the surface of the teeth.
This type of orthodontics offers several benefits, including a shorter treatment time compared to other orthodontic methods. In addition, brackets allow for precise adjustments to achieve the desired results and an aesthetic and functional smile.
Treatment process and duration
The process of rapid orthodontics with braces begins with a dental assessment by an orthodontist, who will determine if the patient is a candidate for this type of treatment. If so, the brackets are placed on the teeth, which may cause some initial discomfort.
Throughout treatment, regular visits to the orthodontist will be made to adjust the brackets and monitor progress. The total length of treatment may vary depending on the specific case, but generally ranges from 6 months to 2 years.
Different types of brackets
There are different types of brackets that can be used in fast orthodontics. Metal brackets are the most common and are characterised by their durability and efficiency in moving teeth. Ceramic brackets, on the other hand, are more aesthetic and blend in better with the natural colour of the teeth.
There are also self-ligating brackets, which do not require the use of elastic ligatures to hold the archwire in place, which facilitates oral hygiene and reduces friction. Finally, there are lingual brackets, which are placed on the inside of the teeth and are practically invisible from the outside.
Possible discomforts and how to deal with them
Fast orthodontics with braces can cause some discomfort during treatment. It is important to know how to manage these discomforts for a more comfortable experience. The following is a description of possible discomforts and some strategies to alleviate them.
Pain and tenderness
It is normal to feel pain and tenderness in the teeth and gums after braces or periodic adjustments. This is due to the pressure exerted on the teeth to move them into their correct position. The pain is usually more intense in the first few days and gradually decreases.
To manage pain and sensitivity, it is recommended:
- Take mild painkillers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, as directed by your orthodontist.
- Apply cold compresses to the affected area to reduce swelling.
- Avoid hot or cold foods and drinks that may increase sensitivity.
Scratches and mucosal wounds
It is common to experience chafing or sores on the mucous membranes of the mouth due to brackets, archwires or aligners. These injuries may occur on the inside of the lip, cheek or tongue, depending on the type of braces.
To alleviate chafing and prevent new wounds, it is suggested:
- Use special orthodontic wax on brackets or aligners that cause discomfort.
- Avoid hard or hard-to-chew foods that can make chafing worse.
- Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent bacterial build-up and reduce the risk of infection.
Adaptation to pronounce certain sounds
With orthodontic appliances in the mouth, some adaptation may be required to pronounce certain sounds correctly. This is due to the presence of brackets, aligners or archwires that may momentarily interfere with the articulation of certain phonemes.
To facilitate adaptation and improve pronunciation, we recommend practising aloud and following these tips:
- Speak more slowly and with greater emphasis on pronunciation.
- Reading aloud exercises to strengthen the muscles of the mouth and improve articulation.
- Seek the support of a speech therapist or speech specialist if prolonged difficulties occur.
Oral hygiene care during treatment
Oral hygiene care is essential during fast orthodontic treatment with braces. Good oral hygiene will help prevent the risk of caries and keep your teeth and gums healthy. Here are some essential recommendations:
Importance of good hygiene
Orthodontics with braces requires special attention to teeth cleaning. Brackets and wires can make it difficult to access certain areas of your teeth, which increases the risk of plaque build-up and decay. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain rigorous hygiene to avoid future problems.
Recommendations for cleaning with fixed brackets
If you have opted for fixed braces, it is important to use the right equipment for oral hygiene. A soft-bristled toothbrush or a special orthodontic toothbrush, together with a fluoride toothpaste, will be your allies. Remember to brush your teeth carefully, paying special attention to the area of the brackets and gums. It is also advisable to use dental floss or an interdental brush to clean the spaces between the teeth and the wires.
Care of clear and removable aligners
If you have chosen clear and removable aligners, taking care of your oral hygiene is equally important. Before every meal, it is imperative that you brush your teeth and aligners thoroughly. Remember to remove them before eating and brush them gently with warm water and a soft-bristled brush. It is essential to make sure that no food gets between the aligner and your teeth before putting them back in your mouth.
Remember that good oral hygiene is key to the success of your fast orthodontic treatment with braces. Follow these recommendations and consult your orthodontist if you have any questions or need more information on how to care for your teeth during treatment.
Recommended diet during orthodontics
Adequate nutrition during orthodontic treatment is essential to minimise discomfort when chewing. Here are some guidelines and recommendations:
Soft diet to minimise chewing discomfort
During the first few days after braces are fitted, it is common to experience tooth sensitivity and pain. To make chewing easier and avoid discomfort, a soft diet is recommended. Some foods you can include in your diet are:
- Soups and broths.
- Pasta cooked al dente.
- Vegetable creams.
- Grilled fish.
- Soft tortillas.
- Sliced bread.
- Yoghurt.
- Flan.
- Soft ice cream.
Foods to avoid or consume with caution
There are some foods that may be uncomfortable or cause damage to the brackets. During orthodontic treatment, the following foods should be avoided or consumed with caution:
- Hard or sticky foods, such as candy, chewing gum or nuts.
- Foods that require hard biting, such as raw apples or carrots.
- Foods that are difficult to clean between the brackets, such as corn or small seeds.
Suggestions for soft and easy-to-chew foods
If you have difficulty chewing due to the presence of braces, you can opt for foods that are soft and easy to chew. Some suggestions are:
- Soft fruits, such as bananas, mangoes or watermelons.
- Ripe or stewed fruit.
- Cooked vegetables, such as courgettes or carrots.
- Shredded or soft-textured meats, such as chicken breast or shredded fish.
- Soft cheeses.
- Softer bread, such as sliced bread or tortillas.
Frequently asked questions about fast orthodontics with brackets
Adaptation time and expected results
How long does it take to adapt to braces and orthodontic treatment? Adaptation time varies from person to person, but it generally takes a few days to get used to the presence of braces in the mouth. Over time, your lips, cheeks and tongue will adapt to the braces and the initial discomfort will diminish. As for the expected results, treatment time will depend on the complexity of the case, but rapid orthodontics with braces usually shows visible results in a shorter period of time than conventional orthodontics.
Post-treatment care and follow-up
What care should be taken after completing orthodontic treatment with braces? It is important to follow the orthodontist's instructions to maintain the results achieved. This may include the use of retainers to prevent the teeth from returning to their original position, as well as regular follow-up visits. During this stage, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and eat a balanced diet, avoiding foods that may damage the brackets or newly aligned teeth. In addition, any persistent discomfort or discomfort should be reported to the orthodontist for evaluation.
Special cases and additional recommendations
- Are there special cases where rapid orthodontics with brackets is not recommended? Yes, in some cases, such as severe jaw malformations or serious bone problems, it may be necessary to opt for other more suitable orthodontic treatment options. The orthodontist will evaluate each case individually and recommend the best option.
- What additional recommendations should be taken into account during fast orthodontic treatment with braces? It is essential to maintain good communication with the orthodontist and follow all his or her instructions. It is also important to avoid habits that are harmful to oral health, such as biting your nails or using your teeth as tools. It is also recommended to protect your mouth during contact sports by wearing appropriate mouthguards.
