Braces are a common option for treating misaligned teeth. The series of brackets and wires put pressure on the teeth, helping to correct the disorder. While braces are most often seen on teens, many adults get braces later in life to realign their teeth.
Why Are Braces Needed?
Braces are used to treat misaligned teeth. Most often, the condition of misaligned teeth is inherited, but occasionally habits such as thumb-sucking or the premature loss of baby teeth can be a contributing factor. Braces work by applying gentle pressure on the teeth over a prolonged period of time to gradually push them back into their proper place. Braces are put on by an orthodontist, a dentist with a specialization in treating dental and jaw abnormalities.
Cleaning the Teeth
In order for braces to properly stick to your teeth, your teeth must be both clean and dry. To begin the process of putting on braces, the orthodontist will place a lip retractor in your mouth to prevent your lips and cheeks from wetting the teeth or getting them dirty. He may also use a paste-like substance, known as pumice, to clean debris off the teeth.
The Brackets
Once the teeth are clean and dry, they are covered with a coat of bonding agent, which holds the composite cement to the teeth. A small metal bracket is placed on each tooth, held in place by the composite cement. These brackets will hold together the wires that make up the braces.
The Wires
The last step of the process is putting on the wires. The wires are placed into slots located on each bracket. Once in place, an elastic or metal tie is used to secure them. In certain braces, known as self-ligating braces, the brackets have special clips built into them that hold the wires in places. These braces do not require additional ties to secure the wires.
Does it Hurt?
Getting braces on is a common procedure and a relatively painless one. No needles or surgical procedures are needed. Most patients feel only slight soreness on their teeth a day or two after getting braces. It may take a few weeks for you to fully adjust to the braces. Occasionally patients suffer small sore on the lips and checks. To cure this, you can put wax on the parts of the braces that cause irritation.
