How Braces Work
Simply put, braces work by putting pressure on the teeth to change their position. A dentist uses braces to create a frame which gently pushes the teeth into the desired position over time. As the teeth move, a small portion of the bone near the root dissolves, allowing the tooth be shift to a new position, where new bone builds up.
Braces are typically made up of brackets, archwires for tension, cement for bonding and other attachments for specific purposes. Getting your braces installed by an experienced orthodontist ensures less pain, better dental hygiene, and precise results over a shorter period of time.
Types of Braces
While it is recommended that dental reposition procedures are applied during childhood, innovations in dental brace technology now give adults and teenagers a chance to opt for these treatments. Read on for more information on the types of braces that are available today.
Traditional Braces
Luckily, traditional braces aren’t what they used to be. They are now much lighter in weight and more streamlined in structure. High-grade stainless-steel material with sturdy metal brackets are attached to the teeth using a special adhesive. Thin archwires are connected to the brackets using ligatures which put gentle pressure on the teeth, and are tightened by the orthodontist to keep teeth in place.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are popular because they are gentler on the teeth. These braces use a slide mechanism instead of traditional elastics, which puts less pressure on teeth, cause less friction, and are easier to clean. They also have the added benefit of less frequent visits to the dentist!
Ceramic Braces
These are similar to stainless steel braces, but with ceramic or plastic brackets. Ceramic braces do not leave stains of the teeth and are less obvious because they blend in with the colour of the teeth. However, they can be costly, and take longer than steel braces for treatment.
Lingual Braces
For those looking for subtle, less visible treatment, Lingual braces are the best option. The braces are attached to the inner side of the teeth. However, they tend to be in constant contact with the tongue and can be uncomfortable. Some difficulty in speech could be experienced for some time and special attention needs to be paid to tongue sores.
Are You Too Old For Braces?
The short answer, is no! In an ideal situation, human teeth would line up perfectly the way they are supposed to, and any minor issues would be addressed during childhood when bones are most malleable. In adults, bones stop growing and take much longer to change their position and structure.
For more in-depth information on adult and adolescent dental braces, or for queries about dental procedures, call us today at 02 9190 6925, or chat with us online!