Dental braces are appliances used to straighten densely packed or misshapen teeth and a lopsided jaw, a condition called malocclusion. They are most commonly used throughout puberty, although an increasing number of adults are undergoing orthodontic treatment later in life. 

Titanium or porcelain braces, as well as wires and bonding medium, are used to affix braces to a patient’s teeth. Dentists that treat this type of equipment and therapy for misaligned dentition is known as an orthodontist. 

Types of Braces

Your orthodontist's recommendation for braces will be based on various criteria, including your age and if you have an underbite in conjunction to buck teeth. Braces are created to order and are tailored to the demands of each patient.

• Titanium brackets are attached separately to all of your teeth with traditional braces, which are what most people think of when they think of braces. Elastic O-rings attach to an archwire to the mounts, exerting strain on your teeth and mandible.
• Invisible braces, also known as aligner trays, can be taken off and put back on throughout the day.
• Ceramic "clear" braces, which are less visible lingual braces, which are completely behind your teeth’ invisible braces. 
• Retainers are aligner trays that are frequently administered after regular braces therapy is completed. They're designed to help you keep your teeth in their new position.

Braces for Adults Work Differently Than Braces for Children?

You might be stunned to discover that you can obtain braces at any age. However, there may be some major benefits to initiating treatment at earlier ages. 

Your jaw and supporting muscles are still changing about as you mature into adulthood from adolescence. The jawline is more flexible during this point, and the teeth are more receptive to mobility.

If your teeth adapt faster to wearing braces, your treatment time may be reduced. There are several changes that braces cannot make once your teeth and jaw have stopped developing. 

When adults acquire braces, patients go through this process as adolescents. If you're an older individual who requires braces, there are several other factors to take into account other than the length of therapy.

I Want to Straighten My Teeth

Braces work by applying consistent pressure to teeth over time, gradually moving them into the correct position. The process involves brackets, wires, and elastics, which all work together to shift the teeth while promoting new bone growth to support their new placement. Regular adjustments are necessary to ensure the treatment progresses as planned, and after the braces are removed, retainers help maintain the results. Whether for cosmetic reasons or to improve oral function, braces are a highly effective way to achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Initial Consultation and Planning

Before braces are applied, an orthodontist thoroughly examines your teeth, gums, and jaw. This process typically involves X-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth to understand the current positioning and any underlying issues. Based on this information, the orthodontist creates a customized treatment plan to address your dental concerns.

Placement of Brackets and Bands

Once the treatment plan is finalized, the orthodontist begins by attaching brackets to the front of each tooth. These brackets are usually made of metal, ceramic, or plastic and serve as the anchor points for the braces. In some cases, metal bands are used instead of or in addition to brackets, especially for molars. These bands are wrapped around the teeth to provide additional support.

The brackets are bonded to the teeth using a special dental adhesive, and their placement is critical as they guide the movement of each tooth throughout the treatment.

Wires and Elastic Bands: The Forces Behind Movement

After the brackets are in place, a thin wire (known as an archwire) is threaded through them. This archwire is the key component that applies pressure to the teeth, encouraging them to move into alignment. The wire is held in place by small rubber bands or metal ties fastened to each bracket.

Over time, as the wire exerts pressure on the teeth, it gradually shifts them into the correct position. The archwire may be replaced or adjusted periodically to maintain steady pressure as the teeth move.

Elastic bands, sometimes called "rubber bands," may also apply additional pressure in certain directions, especially to correct bite issues such as overbites or underbites. These bands are typically attached to hooks on the brackets and can be adjusted by the patient according to the orthodontist's instructions.

How Teeth Move: The Biological Process

Teeth are anchored into the jawbone by roots and surrounded by a membrane called the periodontal ligament. This membrane responds to the pressure exerted by braces, allowing the teeth to gradually shift. As pressure is applied to one side of a tooth, the bone on that side breaks down, creating space for the tooth to move. A new bone is formed on the opposite side, securing the tooth in its new position.

This process of bone remodeling is slow, so braces are typically worn for an extended period, ranging from several months to a few years, depending on the case's complexity.

Adjustments and Tightening

Regular orthodontic appointments are necessary for adjustments throughout treatment. During these visits, the orthodontist tightens the archwire or replaces it with a new one that provides different levels of tension. This ensures that the teeth continue to move in the desired direction.

Each adjustment may cause discomfort for a few days as the teeth begin responding to the new pressure. However, this is a normal part of the process and indicates that the braces work effectively.

Correcting Bite Issues

In addition to straightening teeth, braces can correct bite issues such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. These problems occur when the upper and lower jaws do not align properly, leading to difficulty chewing, speaking, and breathing. Adjusting the position of the teeth and jaw over time helps braces improve the bite's function and appearance.

To achieve this, orthodontists may use additional appliances, such as headgear, expanders, or rubber bands, to apply pressure in specific mouth areas. These appliances work with the braces to guide the jaw and teeth into correct alignment.

The Retention Phase

Patients enter the retention phase once the teeth have moved into their final position and the braces are removed. During this phase, a retainer is worn to prevent teeth from returning to their original position. Retainers can be either removable or fixed, and they are typically worn for several months to a few years after braces are removed, depending on the orthodontist's recommendation.

Wearing a retainer is crucial for maintaining the results achieved with braces, as teeth naturally tend to move over time.

Benefits of Straightened Teeth

Straightening your teeth with braces provides more than just cosmetic benefits. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain, which reduces the risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Correcting bite issues can alleviate jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing, contributing to oral health and well-being.

A straighter smile can also boost self-confidence, making you feel more comfortable in social and professional situations.

FAQ

1. How long do I need to wear braces?
The duration varies depending on the individual’s dental needs. On average, most people wear braces for 1 to 3 years. The orthodontist will provide a more specific timeline based on the complexity of your case.

2. Are braces painful?
Braces can cause some discomfort, especially after they are first applied or after adjustments. This is normal and usually subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help ease discomfort.

3. What foods should I avoid with braces?
You should avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods that can damage the brackets and wires. This includes items like chewing gum, popcorn, hard candies, and raw vegetables. Eating softer foods can help protect your braces.

4. Can I still play sports with braces?
Yes, you can still play sports with braces. However, it’s recommended to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces from injury during contact sports.

5. How often do I need to visit the orthodontist while wearing braces?
Regular check-ups are typically scheduled every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on your treatment plan. These appointments allow the orthodontist to make necessary adjustments and monitor your progress.

Get high-quality braces from the experts at TruCare Dental. Our cosmetic dentist Dr. Le and her dental assistants will assist you with the best dental care services. Please contact us to make an appointment.