How Do Braces Work – Straighten Teeth with Dental Braces
Braces are a common treatment used to correct teeth and jaw alignment. They are typically worn for 1-3 years, depending on the severity of bite problems and the cooperation of the patient. This article will discuss how braces work, the types of braces available today, and their many benefits.
So how do orthodontic braces work? Read more as we’ll get into the details of the matter in today’s post.
What Are Braces – How Do Braces Straighten Teeth?
Braces are types of orthodontic treatment that consist of metal brackets attached to each tooth with an archwire running between them. The wire is then connected to elastics that apply constant pressure to the teeth into proper alignment over time. The metal brackets are bonded to teeth using dental cement and then adjusted periodically by a professional orthodontist or dentist.
The purpose of braces is to move teeth in specific directions to create a more balanced bite, reduce overcrowding, improve facial symmetry, and address jaw misalignment issues such as underbites, overbites, and crossbites through the application of constant pressure. Teeth can be moved with just one type of brace or a combination of different types.
Types Of Dental Braces – How Do They Work?
Traditional metal braces are still very popular because they are strong, reliable, and relatively inexpensive though ceramic braces have become increasingly popular due to their ability to blend into the natural color of teeth while still providing superior flexibility when it comes to adjusting changes throughout treatment. Clear aligners are becoming increasingly popular as well due to their aesthetic appeal–they’re almost invisible. And ease when it comes to cleaning them regularly.
Traditional Metal Bracket System
There are various types of braces available depending on your needs or preferences. The most common type is the traditional metal bracket system.
This system involves the use of metal brackets which are attached to each tooth using a dental cement and then connected by thin archwires. The metal bracket is often considered as the quickest option in correcting misalignment while providing a good deal of accuracy at the same time.
On the other hand, some patients may opt for ceramic braces instead which have brackets made from a clear or tooth-colored material. These are less visible than metal braces and can provide a more aesthetically pleasing solution.
Invisalign
Invisalign is also another popular treatment that involves a series of custom-made aligners that are worn over the teeth to gradually move them in order to correct misalignment. Many people are using this device nowadays.
Lingual Braces
Finally, lingual braces also involve the use of metal brackets that are being placed on the back of each tooth and connected with archwires. This provides a much more discreet treatment solution compared to other types of braces as the brackets are virtually invisible from the outside.
Basic Considerations of Braces
Whichever type of brace you choose for yourself or your child should depend upon several factors such as age (children may require certain types such as expanders or removable retainers), goals for treatment (perfectly straight teeth may require different treatments than milder cases), lifestyle (clear aligners may require more discipline in order for them not be lost), cost considerations (some treatments may be more economical than others) and availability (some locations may only provide certain types). Your orthodontist can advise you on which type would be best suited for your case based on all these factors so always make sure to consult with them before making a decision.
How Can Braces Benefit You
Aligning our teeth correctly brings you numerous real-life benefits too. For example: your appearance improves significantly; you gain better self-confidence; feel proud about your smile; crowds at social events no longer make you anxious; being photographed prominently now becomes much less intimidating; you feel more secure when talking to strangers; improved oral hygiene habits prevent cavities caused by overcrowded/crooked/crowded/misaligned teeth; biting food becomes easier leading to better digestion; TMJ pain caused by jaw misalignment reduces significantly – plus many other advantages specifically dependent upon one’s condition prior choosing wearing braces.
In addition, there is also evidence suggesting that wearing braces increases mental health improvements thanks to the upsurge in the quality of life related to dental aesthetics enhancements. Studies demonstrate that people who invest in improving their smile, via veneers or dentistry even, experience significant boosts in happiness because they simply feel better about themselves thanks to the newly acquired confidence boost.
Final Thoughts
Overall, it’s important that we take your oral health seriously since it’s closely tied to your overall well-being. And this includes proper use of orthodontic devices like braces if necessary.
Although some people might find them intimidating at first glance, due largely in part to the outdated media portrayals, this orthodontic treatment comes in various forms so everyone can find something suitable for their own unique needs.
So make sure you talk through your options thoroughly with your dentist or orthodontist before committing, so you know what kind will fit best within your lifestyle needs + budget requirements in order to achieve optimal results.