Do Braces really work

Braces are dental devices which correct crowded, crooked teeth and misaligned jaw also known as malocclusion. Dental Braces are made of metal or ceramic wires and bonding material that attaches them to your teeth by an orthodontist {Dentist who specializes in these devices and treatment for misaligned teeth}

Exploring the time the braces are on the teeth, the teeth loosen and shift because of pressure created by the wire and elastics. It causes the surrounding membrane of the teeth on one side to expand while the other side constricts. It causes the teeth to loosen from the gum line. As the teeth turn straighter they move less. The bone around the membrane later grows to support the new position of the tooth. This process takes upon slowly, because if it happens excessively fast, the patient could lose their teeth. Hence, braces are worn on average for one to three years. The arch wire, along the bonded brackets, put consistent pressure on the teeth. This pressure signals the cells in blood to start resorbing bone from current position and re-building bone in the new position at the pressure where tooth goes. The tooth generally moves about 1 mm per month as long as the pressure on the tooth is continuous. Wherever the pressure stops, the tooth stop moving. 

Treatment lengths vary for each person, but typically people sport braces for one to three years. By following the instructions of orthodontist carefully, one can ensure that you’re wearing your braces for the shortest time span that is possible.

The various components of Dental Braces which help in the Re-modeling Process-

Dental Brackets: Small squares that bond directly at the front of each tooth. Bracket holds the arch wire which moves the teeth. Brackets are available in stainless steel and tooth-colored ceramic or plastic.

Arch wire: The wire that attaches to the brackets and guides the movement of the teeth. They are typically made of metal, and drag the teeth in the right direction to become straight.

Orthodontic bands: The bands wrap around certain teeth (typically molars) to provide an anchor for the brackets and arch wire. They are also cemented onto the teeth to ensure a sturdy hold. Spacers: These fit between teeth and create space so that one can later fit the orthodontic bands in between the teeth.

Ligatures: Small rubber rings or bands that fasten the arch wire to the brackets. Depending on preference, they can be clear or colored.

Elastics: These rubber bands attach to hooks on brackets and connect the upper and lower teeth. These are important for correcting one’s bite; they apply pressure to move the teeth to achieve a perfect fit and a good bite.