How do Braces Straighten Crooked Teeth
Braces are an effective dental appliance used by orthodontists (dentist who specialize in straightening teeth) for treatment of crooked teeth. Many people have crooked teeth and the severity can vary from a misaligned bite, to very twisted teeth. Crooked teeth can cause problems such as problems chewing, a greater risk of dental disease such as gingivitis because of the difficulty of cleaning your teeth, and embarrassment from a crooked smile.
Some of the signs you may have crooked teeth include problems chewing, speech problems, and an abnormal appearance of the face. Your dentist is the best person to determine if you have crooked teeth. If you do, he or she will probably refer you to an orthodontist. Today there is no need to suffer with crooked teeth. Advancements in the treatment of crooked teeth have made braces more available and more comfortable than ever before.
Components of Braces
Braces are an orthodontic device used to straighten teeth. They are made up of several important components which work together to apply gentle constant pressure on the teeth to ease them into their proper placement in the mouth.
- Brackets
- Molar bands
- Archwires
- Rubber bands
These all work together to straighten your teeth. Your orthodontist will make sure your braces fit and are working properly. You will normally have to wear braces for at least three years depending on the severity of the misalignment of your teeth.Regular visits to your orthodontist are needed while you wear your braces so that they can be adjusted to be effective.
What Each Component Does
Brackets are small square pieces of metal which are attached to your teeth. One bracket is used for each tooth on the row which is to be straightened. Brackets are not used on molars since they are banded. The brackets stay in place as long as you wear your braces. Once the teeth are cleaned and dried, brackets are attached using strong dental cement. This cement is cured with a special light during your fitting appointment. Brackets are the base of the braces. The other components of your braces are then attached to the braces.
Archwires are threaded through the brackets. This wire is very pliable at room temperature, but the heat of your mouth makes it harden and creates a gentle pressure on your teeth. It is the action of the archwire pulling the teeth into alignment which straightens your teeth. This action is done over time, and is a very gentle constant pressure applied to your teeth. The archwires are secured to the brackets using tiny rubber bands. The archwire is fastened to the back two molars using bands to keep it from pulling the brackets off of your teeth. You will have to go to your orthodontist periodically to have the archwires adjusted, and the rubber bands replaced. This is so the braces apply consistent pressure on your teeth.
Today’s braces are easier to wear and can help you have the smile you want. Brackets and bands come in all sorts of different colors, and some are even clear to make your braces less noticeable. Braces help children and adults have a smile they can be proud of.