How Does Braces Work?
Braces work by constantly putting pressure on your teeth, slowly encouraging them to move into the correct position. It’s the arch wire that puts most of the pressure on your teeth, while many of the other parts (like the brackets) work to hold it in place.
The Different Types of Braces & Which is Right for Me?
- Traditional Braces – Traditional braces have progressed since the early days and are now lighter in weight and structure than they used to be. They are made from a high-grade stainless steel and have metal brackets that are attached to each tooth using a type of cement. The brackets are linked to each other with a thin archwire, which puts pressure on the teeth to cause them to move slowly into the correct position.
The archwires are connected to the brackets using tiny elastics known as ligatures or o-rings, which your orthodontist will change each time he tightens the braces. Some types of braces have brackets that don’t need o-rings, and these are called self-ligating braces. - Ceramic Braces – These work in the same way as traditional braces, but the brackets are made from a clear, transparent ceramic material. The braces are less visible to others, which makes them a popular choice for adults who need orthodontic treatment. Patients wearing these types of braces occasionally find that the elastics become discolored, which can cause marks on the teeth. Your orthodontist might recommend the use of a product such as Colgate® Phos-Flur® Anti-Cavity Fluoride Rinse, which will help to provide fluoride to your teeth to protect them against cavities.
- Carriere SLX Braces – This type of braces is currently enjoying a wave of popularity with orthodontists because it provides gentler treatment and requires fewer dental visits. Carriere SLX Braces are self-ligating and use a slide mechanism instead of elastics to connect the archwires.
These braces produce faster results because the teeth can move on their own without needing to be adjusted. This causes less friction and pressure on the teeth, so movement is less painful. The braces are also easier to keep clean. Having to make fewer trips to your dental professional means that the process costs less time and money, too.
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