Physical Need
In order to get braces for the teeth, someone has to display a physical structure issue in order to qualify. There are several reasons why someone may need braces, including malocclusions such as crooked teeth, overbite, overcrowding, breathing problems and gaps or spaces between teeth. Initially, a consultation with an orthodontist will help predict what type of oral care may be the best match for the mouth. During a visit, the orthodontist will X-ray, examine and record the exact locations of the teeth, the structure of the jaw and how the teeth are spaced inside the mouth. The braces work by the archwire pushing the tooth in a designated direction. This promotes bone remodeling. The braces also act as a compressor, compressing the teeth so that bone resorption occurs. As braces place ongoing pressure on the teeth, the periodontal membrane in the mouth stretches, loosening the teeth. As this occurs, the bone grows to accommodate and support the tooth as it repositions itself correctly. This is often referred to as bone resorption. Bone resorption allows the teeth to move into place naturally by being guided by the various parts of the brace's components. A wire structure called the archwire is wrapped around back molars and other teeth for support while the hooks and brackets work at forcing the teeth into their proper direction.
Types and Parts
Overall, there are five main types of braces to choose from. The most popular are metal braces. These include self-ligating and viazis braces in either silver or metal. These braces generally work the best for those with problem teeth and jaw lines. They also accommodate additional orthodontic equipment, including various types of head gear. Ceramic braces and clear inspire braces are more cosmetic and appealing. They are generally hard to detect on the teeth, as many match the color of enamel. Invisilign are gaining popularity because they are virtually invisible. They are also removable but do not always provide as accurate results as traditional metal braces.
Another option is lingual braces. These work similarly to traditional metal braces but are placed behind the teeth rather than the front. There are four main parts to basic braces. These are the arch wire, which holds the other parts of the braces and helps support the unit. Brackets, generally made from ceramic or metal, are secured to each individual tooth. An O-ring or piece of ligature plastic is what pieces together the bracket and the wire. These are the pieces that are generally replaced or readjusted during an orthodontic checkup. Bonding material is usually a type of adhesive material or glue that holds the bracket securely to the tooth itself.
Bone Restructure
One way that braces work at straightening teeth is by restructuring the bone inside of the jaw. The jaw oftentimes plays an important role in how teeth will form inside of the mouth. The compression from the braces helps change the shape of the jawline gradually. Once the teeth are aligned properly, the jaw can slowly begin to restructure itself. This usually creates a significant change in overall facial appearance. Most braces used for bone restructure may need to be on the patient for longer than 24 months. They also may need to be readjusted or used in conjunction with other orthodontic tools such as a face mask, reverse pull headgear and a face bow. An orthodontist will observe regularly what will work best for straightening his patient's teeth.
