Find Out How Do Braces Work to Straighten Your Teeth

How Do Braces Work to Straighten Your Teeth?

Initial Assessment

During the initial assessment, your orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, jaws, and facial structure. This may involve taking X-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth.

Based on the assessment, your orthodontist will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific dental issues.

This plan will outline the type of dental braces needed, the estimated duration of treatment, and any other necessary procedures.

Application

If you are opting for traditional braces, here is what happens next:

• Bonding Brackets: Brackets are small, square-shaped attachments made of metal, ceramic, or plastic that are bonded to the front surface of each tooth using dental adhesive. These brackets serve as anchors for the wires that will guide tooth movement.
• Placement of Bands: In some cases, orthodontic bands may be placed around the molars to provide additional support for the braces. These bands are custom-fitted and cemented in place.

For clear aligners, please read: Invisalign: The Complete Guide

Pressure and Movement

• Archwire Placement: Once the brackets are in place, an archwire is threaded through the brackets and secured with small elastic bands or wire ligatures. The archwire exerts gentle pressure and moves teeth in place.
• Continuous Pressure: The braces apply constant, controlled pressure on the teeth, which stimulates the bone cells around the roots of the teeth to remodel and adapt to the new position. This process is known as bone remodeling and is essential for the long-term stability of the tooth alignment.

Adjustments

Throughout the course of treatment, you’ll need to visit your orthodontist regularly for adjustments. These appointments typically occur every 4 to 8 weeks.

During adjustment appointments, the orthodontist may replace the archwire with a thicker or thinner wire to maintain the appropriate level of pressure for tooth movement.

The orthodontist may also adjust the position of individual brackets or replace any broken or loose brackets to ensure the braces continue to function effectively.

Retention

Once the dental braces are removed, your orthodontist will fit you with a retainer to keep the desired position of your teeth. Retainers may be removable or fixed (bonded) behind the teeth.

You’ll need to wear your retainer as instructed by your orthodontist, typically initially full-time and then gradually reducing to just at night. This helps maintain the new alignment while the surrounding bone and soft tissues stabilize.

How Do Braces Work to Move Teeth?

Correcting Overcrowding

Braces are a highly effective tool for correcting overcrowding, a common orthodontic issue where there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit comfortably (teeth are too large, or the arch is too small).

Here’s how braces work to provide room for teeth to sit:

Creating Space:

• Gradual Pressure: Brackets are bonded to each tooth, and an archwire is threaded through them. The orthodontist tightens the wire periodically, applying gentle, consistent pressure to the teeth. This pressure causes the teeth to slowly move through the jawbone to their desired positions.
• Extraction (sometimes): In severe cases, extracting one or more permanent teeth (usually wisdom teeth or premolars) might be necessary to create additional space for the remaining teeth to move into proper alignment.

Aligning Teeth:

• Controlled Movement: The archwire acts as a track, guiding the teeth in the desired direction. Over time, with adjustments, the pressure moves the crowded teeth into their optimal positions, creating a straighter, more even smile.

Treatment Time:

• Severity of Crowding: The amount of time needed for braces to correct overcrowding depends on the severity of the issue. Mild crowding might take as little as 6-18 months, while more complex cases could require 24-36 months or longer.

Correcting an Overbite

Overbites, where the upper front teeth protrude significantly over the lower front teeth, are a common orthodontic concern. Braces are a powerful tool in an orthodontist’s arsenal for correcting overbites. Here’s how they work:

Addressing the Bite:

• Dual Pressure: Braces apply pressure on your teeth in two ways. The archwire exerts force to move the upper teeth slightly backward, while elastics (rubber bands) connected to the upper and lower brackets create a pulling force to bring the lower teeth forward. This combined pressure helps correct the overbite.
• Anchorage: Certain teeth act as anchors, providing a stable base against which other teeth move. Depending on the severity of the overbite, your orthodontist might use different strategies for anchorage.

Types of Elastics:

• Power Chains: These elastics connect multiple brackets on the upper and lower arches, applying continuous pressure for significant movement.
• Triangle Elastics: Worn in a triangular formation between upper and lower brackets, these target specific teeth for precise adjustments.
• Class II Elastics (hook to hook): These elastics connect hooks on the upper molars to hooks on the lower brackets, pulling the lower jaw forward.

Treatment Time:

• Overbite Severity: The complexity of the overbite determines treatment duration. Mild cases might take 12-18 months, while more severe situations could require 24-36 months or longer.

Moving Teeth Forward

Do Braces and Clear Aligners

While braces are typically used to move teeth backward for crowding or to correct overbites, they can also be used to move teeth forward in certain situations. Here’s how it works:

Creating Space:

• Extractions (sometimes): In cases where there’s not enough space in the jaw for teeth to move forward, strategic extraction of one or more teeth (usually premolars) might be necessary to create the needed space.

Anchorage and Pressure:

• Reverse Anchorage: Unlike correcting overbites where the upper teeth are the anchorage, here the lower teeth act as anchors. Brackets are bonded to all teeth, and the archwire is designed to use the lower teeth as a stable base.
• Shape Memory Archwires: These specialized wires are crafted from a nickel-titanium alloy that “remembers” its original shape. When bent to fit the brackets during placement, the wire exerts a gentle but continuous pressure that gradually pulls the targeted teeth forward.

Applications of Moving Teeth Forward:

• Correcting Underbites: When the lower jaw protrudes excessively, braces can be used to move the upper front teeth forward to achieve proper bite alignment.
• Aesthetics: In some cases, patients might desire a slightly more prominent smile. Braces can be used to move specific front teeth forward for a more aesthetically pleasing result.
• Closing Gaps: If a gap exists between the front teeth due to missing teeth or spacing issues, braces can be used to move adjacent teeth slightly forward to close the gap.

Important Considerations:

• Limited Movement: Moving teeth forward with braces is generally less common and has limitations compared to moving teeth backward.
• Treatment Time: The duration of treatment depends on the complexity of the case and the amount of movement needed.

What Problems Are Usually Fixed With Braces?

Braces are a versatile orthodontic treatment that can address various dental issues, including:

• Crooked Teeth: Braces can effectively straighten teeth that are misaligned or crooked, improving both appearance and function.
• Overcrowding: When there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit properly, braces can gradually create space and align the teeth correctly.
• Spacing Issues: Gaps between teeth, known as diastemas, can be closed using braces, creating a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile.
• Overbite: An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap significantly with the lower front teeth. Braces can help adjust the bite relationship and bring the teeth into proper alignment.
• Underbite: In contrast to an overbite, an underbite occurs when the lower front teeth protrude further than the upper front teeth. Braces can help correct this malocclusion by moving the teeth into the correct position.
• Crossbite: A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. Braces can correct this misalignment by moving the affected teeth into the proper position.
• Open Bite: An open bite occurs when the upper and lower front teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed. Braces can be used to close the gap and improve the bite relationship.
• Midline Misalignment: Sometimes, the center lines of the upper and lower teeth do not align correctly. Braces can help correct this issue, ensuring proper alignment and symmetry.
  

Risks and Considerations in Getting Braces

While braces are generally considered safe and effective, there are some risks and considerations to keep in mind before undergoing orthodontic treatment:

• Discomfort: It’s common to experience some discomfort, soreness, or irritation in the mouth, cheeks, and lips, especially in the first few days after braces are placed or adjusted. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help alleviate discomfort.
• Soft Tissue Irritation: The brackets and wires of braces can sometimes cause irritation or sores on the inner cheeks, lips, or tongue. Orthodontic wax can be applied to the braces to provide a protective barrier, and your orthodontist can make adjustments to minimize irritation.
• Difficulty Eating: Eating may become more challenging initially as you adjust to the feeling of braces and changes in your bite. Stick to softer foods and cut food into smaller pieces to make chewing easier.
• Oral Hygiene Challenges: Proper oral hygiene becomes even more important with braces, as food particles and plaque can easily accumulate around brackets and wires, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. It’s essential to brush and floss diligently and use additional tools like interdental brushes or water flossers to clean around braces.
• Length of Treatment: Orthodontic treatment with braces can take anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on the severity of the dental issues being addressed.
• Potential for Tooth Decay: The brackets and wires of braces can create areas where food particles and plaque can accumulate, increasing the risk of tooth decay and cavities. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and following dietary guidelines provided by your orthodontist can help mitigate this risk.
• Root Resorption: In some cases, the roots of the teeth may shorten slightly during orthodontic treatment, a condition known as root resorption. While this is relatively rare and usually not a cause for concern, it’s important for your orthodontist to monitor your progress closely.
• Gum Recession: In rare cases, braces may contribute to gum recession, where the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots. Proper oral hygiene practices and regular monitoring by your orthodontist can help prevent this complication.

When Will You Start to See Results?

The timeline for seeing results from braces varies depending on several factors, including the severity of the dental issues being addressed, the type of braces used, and individual factors like age and how well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions. Here’s a general overview of when you might start to see results:

1. Initial Changes: Within the first few weeks of wearing braces, you may start to notice some initial changes in your teeth and bite. This could include slight movement of the teeth and changes in the alignment of your bite.
2. Visible Changes: Visible changes typically become more noticeable after a few months of treatment. You may start to see significant improvements in the alignment of your teeth, closure of gaps, or correction of bite issues.
3. Midpoint of Treatment: Around the midpoint of your treatment, which could be anywhere from 6 to 18 months depending on your specific case, you should see substantial progress in the alignment of your teeth. Many people experience a significant improvement in their smile and bite by this stage.
4. Final Results: The full results of orthodontic treatment with braces are usually evident when treatment is complete. This can take anywhere from 1 to 3 years or more, depending on the complexity of your case. By the end of treatment, your teeth should be properly aligned, your bite should be improved, and you should have a straighter, more aesthetically pleasing smile.
   

Is There Any Way to Shorten Braces Treatment Time?

While the duration of braces treatment is influenced by various factors, there are some strategies that may help shorten the overall treatment time:

• Early Treatment: In some cases, orthodontic issues can be addressed more efficiently with early intervention, typically between the ages of 7 and 9. Early treatment can help guide the growth of the jaws and address certain bite problems before they worsen, potentially reducing the need for extensive orthodontic treatment later on.
• Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout braces treatment is essential for preventing complications such as tooth decay and gum disease, which can prolong treatment time. Brushing and flossing diligently, using orthodontic accessories like interdental brushes or water flossers, and attending regular dental cleanings can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
• Follow Orthodontist’s Instructions: Adhering to your orthodontist’s instructions regarding care and maintenance of your braces is crucial for achieving optimal results in the shortest possible time. This includes attending all scheduled appointments, following dietary guidelines, wearing any prescribed appliances or rubber bands consistently, and practicing proper oral hygiene.
• Avoiding Damaging Habits: Habits like nail-biting, chewing on hard objects, or using teeth as tools can damage braces and prolong treatment time. Avoiding these habits can help prevent broken brackets or wires, which may require additional appointments for repairs.
• Compliance with Treatment Plan: Consistently wearing your braces as prescribed by your orthodontist is key to achieving timely results. This includes wearing rubber bands or other appliances as directed, adhering to a strict wear schedule, and following any other treatment instructions provided.
• Technology Advances: Some orthodontic techniques and technologies, such as self-ligating braces or accelerated orthodontics, may offer shorter treatment times compared to traditional braces. Discussing these options with your orthodontist can help determine if they are suitable for your specific case.
• Regular Monitoring: Your orthodontist will monitor your progress closely throughout treatment and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan to ensure efficient progress towards your treatment goals. Attending all scheduled appointments and communicating any concerns or issues with your orthodontist can help facilitate this process.
  

What Happens at Each Appointment?

Each appointment during braces treatment serves a specific purpose in the overall progress towards straighter teeth and a healthier bite. Here’s what typically happens at each appointment:

1. Adjustment Appointments:
   
   • Evaluation: At each adjustment appointment, your orthodontist will evaluate your progress by examining your teeth and bite.
   • Adjustment of Braces: The orthodontist will make any necessary adjustments to your braces, such as replacing wires, changing or tightening bands, or adjusting brackets.
   • Checking Bite Alignment: Your orthodontist will check your bite alignment to ensure that your teeth are moving into the correct position.
   • Addressing Concerns: You can discuss any discomfort, issues, or concerns you may have with your orthodontist during these appointments.
2. Regular Check-Ups:
   
   • Cleaning and Polishing: Your orthodontist or dental hygienist will clean and polish your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup around the braces.
   • Oral Hygiene Education: You’ll receive guidance on proper oral hygiene techniques, including how to brush and floss effectively around your braces.
   • Progress Evaluation: Your orthodontist will assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
   • Monitoring Growth: For younger patients, orthodontic appointments may include monitoring the growth and development of the jaws and teeth to determine if additional interventions are needed.
3. Emergency Visits:
   
   • Broken Braces or Wires: If a bracket becomes loose or a wire breaks, you’ll need to schedule an emergency visit to have it repaired.
   • Discomfort Relief: If you’re experiencing significant discomfort or irritation from your braces, your orthodontist can provide relief by adjusting or repairing them.
4. Discussion of Treatment Plan:
   
   • Treatment Progress: Your orthodontist will discuss your treatment progress, including any improvements or adjustments needed.
   • Treatment Timeline: You’ll receive updates on your treatment timeline and any changes to the expected duration of treatment.
   • Treatment Goals: Your orthodontist will review the goals of your treatment and ensure that you understand what to expect throughout the process.
5. Retainer Appointments (After Braces Removal):
   
   • Retainer Fitting: After your braces are removed, you’ll be fitted with a retainer to maintain the results of treatment.
   • Adjustments: Your orthodontist will make any necessary adjustments to your retainer to ensure proper fit and function.
   • Retainer Care Instructions: You’ll receive instructions on how to care for and wear your retainer to prevent relapse of tooth movement.

How Fast Do Braces Work?

The speed at which braces work varies depending on several factors, including the severity of the orthodontic issues being addressed, the type of braces used, and individual factors such as age and genetics. In general, braces gradually move the teeth into the desired position over a period of several months to a few years. Here are some factors that can influence the speed of braces treatment:

• Severity of Misalignment: The more severe the misalignment of the teeth and bite, the longer it may take to achieve the desired results. Complex cases may require more extensive treatment and a longer duration of braces wear.
• Type of Braces: Different types of braces may have varying treatment times. Traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces (placed on the back of the teeth), and clear aligners each have their own advantages and limitations in terms of treatment speed and effectiveness.
• Compliance with Treatment: Consistently wearing braces as instructed by your orthodontist is crucial for achieving timely results. This includes wearing rubber bands or other prescribed appliances consistently and following any dietary guidelines or oral hygiene instructions provided.
• Age: Orthodontic treatment tends to be more efficient in younger patients, as their bones are still growing and more responsive to orthodontic forces. However, braces can be effective for patients of all ages, with treatment duration varying based on individual factors.
• Orthodontic Technique: Some orthodontic techniques and technologies, such as self-ligating braces or accelerated orthodontics, may offer shorter treatment times compared to traditional braces. These approaches can help expedite tooth movement and reduce overall treatment duration.
• Orthodontist’s Experience: The skill and expertise of your orthodontist can also impact the speed and effectiveness of braces treatment. An experienced orthodontist can develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and closely monitor your progress throughout treatment.
  

How Do Braces Work for Adults Compared to Children?

Braces can be effective for both adults and children, but there are some differences in how they work and the considerations involved in each case:

Bone Density and Growth:

• Children: Children’s bones are still growing and developing, which can make orthodontic treatment more efficient. The bones are more malleable, allowing for easier tooth movement and more predictable results.
• Adults: Adults have fully developed bones, which can make tooth movement slower and more challenging. However, adults can still achieve significant improvements with braces, albeit over a longer period of time.

Treatment Duration:

• Children: Orthodontic treatment for children typically starts between the ages of 7 and 14, with treatment durations ranging from 1 to 3 years depending on the severity of the issues being addressed.
• Adults: Adult orthodontic treatment may take longer than treatment for children due to factors such as bone density, gum health, and the complexity of the case. Treatment durations for adults can vary widely but often range from 18 months to 3 years or more.

Treatment Goals:

• Children: Orthodontic treatment for children often focuses on guiding the growth and development of the jaws and teeth to achieve optimal alignment and bite relationship. Early intervention may help prevent more severe orthodontic problems later in life.
• Adults: Orthodontic treatment for adults typically focuses on correcting existing dental issues, such as crooked teeth, crowded teeth, or bite misalignments. The primary goal is to improve aesthetics, function, and oral health.

Orthodontic Options:

• Children: Children may have more treatment options available, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as age, severity of the orthodontic issues, and personal preference.
• Adults: While adults have similar treatment options to children, the choice of braces may be influenced by factors such as aesthetics, lifestyle, and comfort. Many adults prefer discreet options like clear aligners or ceramic braces to minimize the visibility of braces during treatment.

Compliance and Responsibility:

• Children: Children may require more supervision and guidance to ensure compliance with orthodontic treatment, including wearing rubber bands, maintaining oral hygiene, and attending regular appointments.
• Adults: Adults are typically more responsible for their own orthodontic treatment and may be more motivated to follow treatment instructions. However, adults may also face challenges such as work commitments, lifestyle factors, and self-consciousness about wearing braces.

FAQ on How Do Braces Work

Sources:

Journal of Clinical Orthodontics: Treatment of Dentofacial Anomalies with Reverse Pull Headgear https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3318521/