How Do Traditional Braces Work?
Traditional braces have been used for many decades, and they’re one of the most well-known options for orthodontic treatment. There are other options for straightening teeth such as clear aligners, but traditional braces remain unmatched in their ability to address a wide variety of orthodontic issues, from relatively simple cases of misalignment to more complex ones.
Braces are made up of three main components: the metal brackets attached to the teeth, the wires that connect the brackets, and elastics. A special bonding agent is used to bond the brackets to the enamel. Then a metal wire is threaded through the brackets and held in place with elastics. The wire helps move teeth to their new positions; it will need to be adjusted throughout the treatment so that the pressure is always directed in the right direction. For younger patients, the elastics used to keep the wire in place can come in a variety of different colors, giving them a chance to get creative with their smile while their underlying orthodontic issues are being corrected.
The ultimate goal of braces is to create a straighter, healthier smile along with a properly aligned bite. As such, the treatment may need to be customized slightly to achieve specific orthodontic goals.
Who is a Good Candidate for Traditional Braces?
Many people assume that traditional braces are only for children, but they are suitable for patients of virtually any age. To be a candidate for braces, you need to be in good oral health, and you should have any necessary dental work – such as gum disease therapy, fillings, or extractions – completed before starting the process. It may be necessary to remove teeth before braces if they could prevent the rest of your mouth from making the necessary movements.
What Are the Benefits of Straighter Teeth?
Straighter teeth come with many notable advantages. For example:
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They can improve self-esteem along with appearance. For children who are worried about what their peers think, a straighter smile can contribute to much happier experiences at school.
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They can improve oral health. It’s much easier to thoroughly brush and floss teeth that are properly aligned, which reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
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They can reduce wear and tear on your enamel. An uneven bite puts more pressure on certain areas of your smile, but by putting your teeth and jaws in the correct position, you can keep your grin safe from excessive wear.
