Wearing braces might not seem like a lot of fun but they do work very effectively when worn according to your dental practitioner’s instructions. Fortunately, the technology producing braces has improved and the appliances have become smaller over time. Let’s take a closer look at how do braces work, and how they can improve the appearance of your smile.

Who Needs To Wear Braces?

Braces are usually recommended when you have a misaligned bite or teeth that are out of alignment. Your dentist is likely to conduct a dental exam, take x-rays of your mouth and teeth and take impressions of your teeth in order to ascertain whether you need to wear fixed appliances or a retainer. Unless you have an extreme over- or under-bite it is unlikely that you will need surgery.

In the event that you only require minor corrections to your mouth, your dental practitioner may recommend a retainer. If you need more work done, then fixed braces will probably suit your needs best.

How Do Braces Work At Straightening Your Teeth?

Braces straighten the teeth by applying pressure slowly to move them into the correct position. It is a gradual process that is likely to take place over a number of months or a few years. Once the teeth have moved into position, your jawbone will change shape to accommodate the new positions. You may experience some pressure or discomfort while this happens but remember – you are changing the shape of your jaw and forcing your teeth into new positions. It’s normal to experience some ‘teething pains’ while this happens. Your appliances may include wires, bands, removable or fixed appliances that all work together under the pressure system created by your dental practitioner, to correct your smile.

How Do The Components Work Together?

Your appliances are made up of different components that all play an important role in straightening your teeth and re-aligning your jaws. The brackets are placed on the exterior of the teeth. The brackets hold onto the wires that are responsible for moving your teeth into new positions.

Brackets may be made from ceramic, plastic or stainless steel. Some of them are tooth-coloured while others may be bonded to the back of the teeth to make them less noticeable.

Arch wires are attached to your brackets and provide some guidance while your teeth are moved into their new positions. These may also be tooth coloured or made from stainless steel. Rubber or elastic bands are fitted to the hooks on the brackets, between the lower and upper teeth. The orthodontic bands are attached to your teeth with a special bonding agent made for teeth. The bands are wrapped around each tooth to create a foundation for the brackets. Orthodontic bands are generally made out of stainless steel but can also be tooth-coloured. Not everyone needs bands though; some patients are just fitted with brackets.

How Long Does It Take The Braces To Work?

Each person’s case is different and the timeline you will need to wear braces for will depend on your particular circumstances. On average most people will need to wear them for between 12 and 36 months. This might seem like a long time right now, but once they have been fitted the time will fly past and in no time you will be admiring your new smile. It is highly likely your dentist will recommend that you wear a retainer once your braces have been removed to stop your teeth from drifting back into their old positions. You will also consult with your dental practitioner every month so he or she can monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. In fact, most times your dentist will need to adjust the pressure to the springs, wires or bands in order to straighten your teeth. Still have questions about how do braces work? Contact our friendly and professional team today and get the answers you need: (02) 8074 3849 .

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This