How Do Braces Work to Correct Different Orthodontic Issues — Are They Effective?

Dental braces are the one-stop solution for all the issues that arise when teeth are out of proper alignment. This orthodontic appliance saves you from a lifetime of cosmetic and medical concerns. In addition, braces help you achieve a straight, healthy, and confident smile. All of the benefits in just one treatment: dental braces!

But how do braces work? You might be curious about the science behind this effective treatment – how can it have a solution to all kinds of dental malocclusions? If you are wondering how braces show optimal results, carry on reading this blog.

How do Braces Work to Move Your Teeth

Braces correct misalignment by exerting constant pressure on teeth and jaw, which helps shift them into the proper position. The archwire, which applies pressure on teeth, is held by the brackets that are glued to your teeth. Gradually, teeth alter their position due to the effectiveness of braces.

Periodontal ligaments surround the teeth and bone, keeping them in place. However, when braces move, the ligaments stretch or compress accordingly. Hence, if the braces shift a tooth to the right, the ligament on the right will compress. Then, a new bone will form on the left to fill the gapped area.

This is how braces work in a nutshell, but the working may differ according to the prevalent issue. Here are some common dental issues that braces help eliminate:

1. Overcrowding: If your jaw is too small or your teeth are too big, you may have overcrowding. Braces work to fix overcrowding by moving each individual tooth into the correct position, be it forward, across, or backward. This way, by the end of the treatment, your mouth will have enough room for the teeth to sit side by side. In some cases, tooth extraction or jaw expanders are used in conjunction with braces to correct overcrowding.
2. Overbite: When the top teeth overlap the lower teeth, it is known as an overbite. Similarly, overjet occurs when top teeth protrude outward, sitting over lower teeth. To correct both cases of dental malocclusion, braces work to move the affected teeth in the required manner. The movement of teeth is based on the individual case. By applying constant pressure, braces ensure the teeth move into the right positions. In addition, the bone surrounding the affected teeth changes shape to match the new position.
3. Incorrect Position: Braces also help move teeth forwards toward the lips. Your orthodontist will use an archwire with a shape memory composed of nickel titanium to shift the teeth forward. Initially, the wire is bent so that it meets the bracket in the tooth. With time, though, it might return to its original U shape to carry the tooth forward.

Phases of Braces Treatment

Braces might work in the following ways to straighten your teeth:

• Moving your teeth so they are aligned, sitting side by side.
• Braces adjustment to correct any bite issues, such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
• Fine-tuning and studying up in the final months to ensure teeth are sitting in the proper position before the braces are removed.

So, To Conclude:

In short, braces work by constantly applying pressure to the affected teeth, making sure they sit side by side in a perfect alignment. At Adventure Orthodontics, our team cares about your smile. Allow us to make your teeth straight and healthy by scheduling an appointment at (281) 353-5556 or giving us a visit at 17718 Kuykendahl Rd, Spring, TX 77379, United States.