8 facts about purple braces
Purple braces are used to correct minor orthodontic problems and improve the overall aesthetics of your smile. Here are eight facts about purple braces that you may not know about these common orthodontic appliances.
1) How much do purple braces cost?
When it comes to price, you can expect that there will be a fair amount of variation among dental offices and orthodontists. Orthodontic treatment is typically more expensive than other dental treatments because it requires specialized training and experience. Generally speaking, you should expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 up to several thousand dollars depending on your specific needs and circumstances. Of course, there are ways to lower your costs if necessary — check out our post on How To Get Discounted Purple Braces for some great ideas on how to pay less for purple braces! Wear pink or black with them?:
No matter what color you wear with your new purple-colored brackets, be sure that it coordinates well with any clothing or accessories in your wardrobe. Your smile will thank you for coordinating items instead of clashing with them. That said, we do recommend choosing an outfit that’s closer to neutral when possible since contrast tends to make even simple designs look more interesting. For example, light pants and a white blouse look best when paired with shades like purples or light blues rather than hot pink or fire engine red. In addition, keep in mind that one of these two colors must match either your gumline or inside edge bracket line.
2) How long will they last?
A common myth is that a retainer will last forever. But in fact, after only two years, retainers usually need to be replaced. In fact, if you notice a change in your bite or jaw alignment (such as uneven teeth), it might be time for new ones. And you should see your dentist at least once a year for cleaning and adjustments of your retainers anyway. When they do break or wear out, they can be difficult to clean; so don’t put off getting new ones because you are worried about how much it will cost.
Usually replacing them during regular checkups costs less than you would pay for preventative care to fix issues stemming from improperly fitting retainers over time. If a retainer breaks while it is still being worn, try taking it out (if safe) and soaking it overnight in an enzymatic cleaner such as Efferdent tablets made by Procter & Gamble.
3) What colours do they come in?
The most common colour of braces is white, but there are so many options available. There are pink, green, blue and yellow colours to choose from – as well as patterns that look like animal print! Not only do they come in a variety of colours, they also come in several styles: ceramic-lined metal, chrome-plated metal and nickel-titanium (aka NI). All three offer different benefits. For example, ceramic-lined brackets tend to be made with a more comfortable material than regular metal brackets; meanwhile NI braces often last longer than other types of coloured or patterned ones. If you’re thinking about getting your teeth straightened, check out our selection here at Smile Direct Club.
4) Who are they recommended for?
Teens with mild to moderate misalignment or crowding may be good candidates for invisalign. This can include patients who have been wearing traditional braces and have not achieved their goals or those who would like to avoid traditional metal brackets, wires, and elastics altogether. Patients whose teeth need more extensive alignment may want to consider alternative treatments such as orthodontic retainers. Orthodontic retainers are also recommended for adults who want to maintain corrected alignment after completing a course of treatment with invisalign. Finally, teens and adults with a jaw joint problem known as TMJ disorder may benefit from invisalign due to its comfort and cosmetic appeal.
5) What do I need to know before getting them?
First, understand that every case is different. Braces aren’t a cookie-cutter kind of procedure; they are customized based on your mouth and bite. If you already have orthodontic work done, you may be a candidate for clear aligners, which fit over your teeth like thin rubber bands (they typically start at $500). But before getting them, talk to your dentist about what will work best for you. If it’s clear aligners, remember that you need good oral hygiene to prevent gum disease or cavities from developing around them. In addition to taking better care of your smile overall, there are steps to take with braces specifically
6) Do you ever have to take them off?
Yes, you have to take them off sometimes. Some people with traditional plastic brackets, aka clear brackets, never have to remove their aligners except for special occasions. But if you’re wearing Invisalign® clear aligners—the only clear aligners that are removable—you can take them out whenever you want to clean your teeth or eat something hot and soft (like a burrito). You don’t need a dentist appointment or any other special procedure; in fact, you can pretty much do it yourself at home. In addition to food and cleaning your teeth with toothpaste, taking out your aligners allows new tooth movement to occur.
7) How much does the process hurt?
Braces don’t hurt. But, getting them fitted does; it may feel as if your orthodontist is stabbing you with a knife, he’s so aggressive in fitting them. As for how much pain you might feel from wearing them daily—that varies from person to person, but most people find it isn’t too painful and actually feels more comfortable than not wearing them. If you need to take some painkillers during that initial period, don’t be afraid to do so; once your teeth get used to having braces on. However, you shouldn’t need any additional painkillers at all. People even forget they have braces sometimes! So long as you wear them religiously every day, though (again: no chewing gum or other foods when your braces are on!), chances are good you won’t even notice they’re there after a while.
8) Will I get teased for having purple braces?
In my experience, kids are used to seeing a lot of strange things. As long as you don’t run around showing your mouth off to all your friends like a peacock, chances are you won’t get teased. If by some chance someone does say something, just walk away and ignore them. You might be surprised to find that people are more accepting than you think! For example, in my small town I had a friend with 10 ear piercings; she never got teased once. Of course, that doesn’t mean it won’t happen – but if it does happen, don’t let it phase you.
