How Braces Work:
Brackets and Wires:
Brackets are bonded to the teeth, and archwires are passed through them.Pressure Application:
The archwire exerts consistent pressure on the teeth, gradually guiding them into the correct position.Bone Remodeling:
This pressure stimulates the bone and surrounding tissue (periodontal ligament) to remodel, allowing the teeth to move.Gradual Movement:
Teeth move slowly over time, typically in increments of about 1 mm per month.Treatment Phases:
Orthodontic treatment often involves multiple phases, including expansion, leveling, aligning, bite adjustments, and fine-tuning.
Beyond Straightening - Other Benefits of Orthodontics:
Fixing Bite Issues: Braces can correct overbites, underbites, and other bite problems.
Improving Oral Health: Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Facial Profile: Aligned teeth and a corrected bite can improve the appearance of the jawline and overall facial profile.
Preventing Tooth Damage: Straight teeth are less likely to be damaged by accidents or chewing.
You can get braces with any number of teeth, including if you have missing teeth. Braces can be used to align teeth, even if you only have a few teeth. In some cases, braces can be used to close gaps or widen spaces for future replacements.
Full or Partial Braces: Usually, you can get full braces that cover all your teeth; or in some cases, you may get partial braces that only may cover some of your teeth.
Missing Teeth: Braces can be used even if you have missing teeth. The orthodontist will assess your case and create a treatment plan that considers the missing teeth.
Closing Gaps: Braces can help close gaps created by missing teeth.
Wider Spaces: In some cases, braces can be used to widen spaces to accommodate future replacements.
Early Intervention: Orthodontic treatment can be started early, even if you still have baby teeth.
Not Waiting: It's not always necessary to wait for all baby teeth to fall out before getting braces.
When choosing a type of braces, factors such as the complexity of the case, aesthetic preferences, lifestyle considerations, and maintenance willingness should be considered.
There are several types of braces used in orthodontics, each with its own advantages. The most common types include: