Braces are special tools used in orthodontics to help straighten teeth. If your teeth are crooked or out of place, braces will move them to the appropriate place. Children and adolescents wear braces to straighten their smiles and improve oral health. But have you ever thought about how braces really work? Let’s find out.
What Are Braces Made Of?
Braces contain numerous components that work together to reposition your teeth. Braces consist primarily of brackets, wires, bands, and others.
How Do Braces Work?
Braces apply gentle, continuous pressure to teeth, gradually moving them into the correct position(place). This process involves several key parts:
- Brackets: Brackets are simply small squares that are attached to each of your teeth with dental glue, which serve as a way to hold the archwire, thereby moving (shifting) the teeth.
- Archwire: The fine metal wires that connect all brackets. The wire applies pressure to guide the teeth into position.
- Ligatures: Also known as elastic bands, these hold the archwire to the brackets. They come in various(multiple) colours, allowing for personalization.
- Elastics: Larger rubber bands that may be used to apply extra force to specific teeth or jaws, aiding in bite correction.
When braces are fitted, the archwire is threaded through the brackets and secured with ligatures. The constant pressure exerted by the archwires and elastics allows teeth to move. When teeth shift, the bone around them is remodelled to support the new tooth position(place). So consider orthodontics in Kitchener if you need a professional to guide you through this process for optimal results for your smile.
How Do Braces Move Teeth?
Braces move teeth using gentle pressure. When an orthodontist (a dentist who specializes in braces) puts braces on your teeth, they adjust the archwire to fit into the brackets. This creates pressure on the teeth.
Over time, this pressure helps the teeth move into proper alignment. It can take several months or even a few years to get teeth straightened with braces. Each time you visit a dentist near you they will tighten the wire to keep applying pressure.
You might feel some discomfort after getting braces or after a tightening appointment. This is normal! It means the braces are doing their job. The discomfort (pain) usually goes away after a few days.
Why Do People Get Braces?
There are many reasons why people get braces. Some reasons include:
- Crooked Teeth: Teeth that are not in the right position can make it hard to chew food and can be hard to clean properly.
- Gaps Between Teeth: Spaces between the teeth can cause problems with your bite, which makes it harder to eat.
- Overbite or Underbite: An overbite is when the upper teeth stick out far over the lower teeth. An underbite is the opposite, where the lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth. Both can cause issues with chewing and speaking.
- Crowded Teeth: Sometimes, there is not enough room in the mouth for all the teeth, making them overlap each other. Braces can help create space so that teeth can properly align.
Benefits of Braces
Wearing braces offers several advantages:
- Improved Appearance: Straightening your teeth can significantly enhance your smile, giving you a more confident and attractive appearance.
- Better Oral Health: Aligned teeth are easier to clean, making it simpler to brush and floss effectively. This lowers the likelihood of acquiring cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
- Enhanced Functionality: Correcting bite problems with braces can improve your ability to chew food properly and enhance your speech, contributing to better overall oral function.
Braces not only improve the aesthetics of your smile but also promote long-term oral health and functionality. If you’re considering braces, find orthodontics near you to get expert advice and treatment tailored to your needs.
Caring for Your Braces
Having braces means you need to take special care of your teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are very important. Here are some tips on how to take care of (maintain) braces:
- Brush Your Teeth: Use a toothbrush to clean around the brackets and wire. Try to brush for at least two minutes a day.
- Floss Carefully: Flossing takes extra effort with braces. Use a floss threader or orthodontic flosser to help keep your teeth clean.
- Eat Smart: Some foods can damage braces, like hard candies, chewing gum and more. It is essential to follow your orthodontist’s advice about what foods to avoid.
Duration of Treatment
The time required to straighten teeth with braces for teeth varies depending on the individual’s needs. On average, treatment lasts between one to three years. After braces are removed, wearing a retainer as directed is important to keep teeth in their new positions.
Straighten Your Smile with Braces Today!
At Laurentian Dental Centre, we understand how important your smile is. Our friendly team of dentists in Kitchener offers braces for kids and adults, helping you achieve the straight teeth you’ve always wanted. We use the latest technology and provide personalized care to make your braces journey as comfortable as possible. Don’t wait any longer to get the smile you desire to obtain! Contact Laurentian Dental Centre and start your journey toward a brighter, healthier smile today!