Just like any other braces in the world, dental braces are also used for alignment. In this case, dental braces help to align your teeth perfectly, improve dental health, and uplift your overall appearance. Depending on the severity of alignment issues and treatment needs, an individual may experience a shorter or a longer duration of wearing dental braces.
9 Braces Components: How They Work
There are 3 main braces components including brackets, archwire, and ligature. These components work together to gradually align and straighten teeth. Additionally, there are other braces components that enhance the functionality of braces including bands, elastics (rubber bands), spacers, buccal tubes, springs, and headgear.
1. Brackets
Braces are tiny squares that are attached directly to the front of each tooth. They can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic, and their primary function is to hold the archwire in place and transmit forces to the teeth. The brackets are secured on the front surface of each tooth.
2. Archwire
Archwire is a fine metal wire that passes through the brackets and it is made of stainless steel or nickel-titanium. The archwire helps exert pressure on the teeth to guide them into the correct position.
3. Ligatures
Ligatures (O-Rings) are small rubber bands or metal ties that secure the archwire to the brackets. They come in various colours and are placed around the brackets, holding the archwire in place.
4. Bands
Bands are metal rings secured around the back teeth. These bands provide anchor points for the braces and attach to the archwire. They are wrapped around the molars (back teeth).
5. Elastics
Elastics (Rubber Bands) are larger rubber bands that apply additional force to specific teeth, helping to correct bite alignment. They are attached to hooks on the brackets and sometimes on the bands, stretching between the upper and lower teeth.
6. Spacers
Spacers are small rubber bands or metal devices that create space between the teeth before the bands are placed. They are positioned between the teeth (usually molars) before the bands are applied.
7. Buccal Tubes
Buccal tubes are small metal parts attached to the bands. They hold the ends of the archwire in place and are located on the outside of the molar bands.
8. Springs
Springs are coiled devices placed on the archwire. Their function is to apply pressure to the teeth to open up spaces or close gaps. They are positioned on the archwire between the brackets.
9. Headgear
Headgear is an external appliance used to apply pressure to correct severe bite problems. It is attached to the braces inside the mouth and around the head or neck with straps and hooks.
How The Braces Process Works
The orthodontic process begins with a dental check-up and x-rays to assess your teeth. Following this, the orthodontist attaches brackets to your teeth and threads the archwire through them, setting the stage for your treatment.
During the adjustment period, you might experience some initial discomfort as your mouth adapts to the braces. Regular appointments with the orthodontist allow for adjustments to the archwire tension, gradually guiding your teeth into their correct positions.
The braces work by applying consistent pressure to reshape the bone around your teeth, gradually moving them into alignment. It is important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions, such as wearing elastics correctly and maintaining good oral hygiene, to ensure your treatment is successful.
Conclusion
Braces might seem complicated, but understanding braces components and how they work can make the process much less intimidating. Brackets, archwires, ligatures, bands, elastics, spacers, buccal tubes, springs, and even headgear all play vital roles in guiding your teeth into a healthy, beautiful smile. Each part works together to apply gentle, continuous pressure, gradually moving your teeth into their proper positions. Remember, braces are a step toward a healthier and more confident you. Embrace the journey, and before you know it, you will have the smile you have always wanted!
Braces Practice can help you get a beautiful smile now! Get in touch with us to get your braces at Holland Village!
