Ways Braces Work to Straighten Teeth in Adults and Children

September 26, 2019, Langley Dental Practice

Many people misconstrue the service and believe only children qualify for treatment. But, anyone, regardless of age, can have their teeth straightened. Why should you straighten your teeth? First, misaligned teeth make you look ugly and distort your smile. Again, crowded teeth wear out fast and are hard to clean. Flossing and brushing become difficult, and bacteria pile up in your mouth. 

Besides, the pile-up of bacteria exposes you to dental diseases like periodontitis and smelly breath. Here’s how braces work to counter the side-effects of misaligned teeth.

How Braces Work

Teeth Bracing is a gradual process. While it may take shorter periods to straighten children’s teeth, adults need to remain patient. The period varies depending on misalignment’s extent and the discipline in wearing some braces.

Teeth bracing involves the exertion of constant pressure on teeth for a certain period until the jaws respond and return to normalcy. The dentist uses metal made brackets or ceramics interconnected by a wire to balance teeth. 

The latest technologies in orthodontics cut down the need for tightening appointments and include invisible braces such as Invisalign. Learn more about it at Lifestyle Dental.

Braces installation is a civil procedure and takes up to two hours. It doesn’t hurt though it might cause soreness for up to a week after the process. You will also face pain during adjustments. However, your dentist can prescribe painkillers

What the Dentist Uses in Bracing

After cleaning and drying the death, the dentist applies plastic, ceramic, or steel brackets to the teeth using a unique adhesive or glue. The dentist can also bond the brackets with dental cement. Throughout the process, they rely on a cheek retractor to keep the mouth open and dry.

The dentist can also use Orthodontic bands to provide anchorage to the brackets. The bands come colored and more appealing, and dentists don’t use them on all patients. 
For efficiency of the process, the dentists rely on spacers to create space before placing bands. The spacers further push the jaws and create space for braces at the back of the mouth.

Nickel, titanium or steel archwires connect the brackets and allow for pressure application. Meanwhile, buccal tubes attach to a molar and provide braces anchorage at the mouth’s rear end.

Further, the dentist might place springs on the archwire. The springs enhance pressure on teeth and separate them. If need be, the doctor may issue you a facebow headgear.
 
Teeth bracing will pressurize your jawline to align well. Plus, straightened teeth will enhance your looks and are vital for excellent health and personal aesthetics. For more info about braces, contact your dentist. 

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