Gentle Pressure, Gradual Movement
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) says straightening crooked or poorly aligned teeth can improve a person's ability to properly to chew, bite and speak. Teeth that are correctly aligned also enhance the overall health of teeth and gums. The delicate process of safely pulling teeth back without causing an undue tenderness consists of placing gentle, ongoing pressure with the use of dental appliances called braces over one to three years. An orthodontist is a dentist who is highly trained in the technique of moving teeth.
Brackets
Brackets are very small, stainless steel appliances that are glued to the teeth. The adhesive must be strong enough to keep braces in place for the duration of treatment but not so strong that it could damage your teeth when your orthodontist is ready to remove your braces. The Associates in Orthodontics (AIO) says brackets permit the pressure of the arch wire to be passed on to your teeth.
Arch Wires
The arch wire is the chief wire that attaches all of the braces on the front of the teeth. It serves as a guide along which the direction the teeth are pulled. The orthodontist changes arch wires many times throughout the course to treatment to ensure the proper movement of the teeth.
A-lastics
According to the AIO, A-lastics are tiny rings that are used to fasten the arch wires to brackets. A-lastics are changed at each visit to the orthodontist to sustain the effectiveness of the attachment of the arch wire to the bracket.
Elastics & Hooks
At some point during treatment, the orthodontist likely uses miniature rubber bands called elastics on the braces to reinforce pressure and help move the teeth and jaw into optimal alliance.Elastics are usually taken out during eating and brushing. Hooks are tiny, blunt attachments to the brackets that allow the patient to wear elastics from the top to the bottom teeth.
