Braces

The purpose of the braces is to help patients straighten their teeth.

Over time, braces move the teeth applying a force that the dentist can control and adjust in each appointment.

Braces have three basic parts that apply force to the teeth:

Brackets: are made of metal or ceramic. They are glued to each tooth.
Archwire: is a thin metal wire that goes into each bracket around the teeth. The arch wire force can be adjusted as needed sometimes by replacing it for a new wire.
Elastics: are small coloured elastics that hold the bracket onto the archwire. The elastics are changed every time they become loose at each adjustment visit to the dentist.

The movement of teeth involves different cells and tissues that form the periodontal ligament. The force that braces apply to the teeth stimulates the bones’ cells and tissues to move gradually. The periodontal ligament attaches the teeth to the bone and helps the teeth withstand compressive forces of biting.

The role of dental braces is to apply a regulated force that guides the teeth into a better position. Brackets that are placed during the dental brace treatment produce pressure and tension to the root of the teeth. The archwire applies a force that can be adjusted and cause the teeth to move in a predictable direction. However teeth do not move immediately after braces are placed. The force applied during the braces treatment will start moving the cells and tissues approximately within two to three weeks.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, we encourage you to discuss these matters with an appropriately qualified health practitioner.