How Braces Fix Teeth: An Explanation of the Process
Braces have become a common orthodontic treatment aimed at correcting dental misalignment. They are highly effective in realigning teeth, improving oral health, and enhancing the overall appearance of an individual's smile. At Crossley Orthodontics, we can help you understand more about how braces work to fix your teeth, the types of braces available, and the benefits of undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Braces are often used to correct dental misalignment which is the improper positioning of teeth within the jaw. There are various types of misalignment, including overcrowding, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. Braces work to correct these issues by applying gentle pressure to move teeth gradually into proper alignment.
What Are Braces?
Orthodontic braces consist of several components working together to realign teeth effectively. The main parts include:
Brackets: These are small, square-shaped metal or ceramic pieces attached to the front surface of the teeth. Their purpose is to provide a secure platform for the other components to function effectively.
Archwire: A thin, flexible wire that runs through the brackets, applying pressure to move the teeth. The archwire plays a pivotal role in the overall orthodontic process, as it helps guide teeth into their desired positions. Its design allows it to fit comfortably within the brackets, ensuring a smooth and effective treatment experience.
Ligatures: Tiny elastic or metal bands used to hold the archwire onto the brackets. By firmly securing the archwire in place, ligatures ensure consistent pressure application while your teeth are repositioning.
Springs: Springs are an essential tool in orthodontics as they can effectively address concerns like crowding and bite irregularities. They are ideal for applying gentle pressure to specific treatment areas as they are designed to be compact.
Types of Braces
Traditional Metal Braces: Made of high-grade stainless steel, these are the most commonly used braces due to their durability and cost-effectiveness.
Ceramic Braces: These braces are less noticeable as they blend with the natural teeth color. Ceramic braces offer a cosmetic advantage but may be more prone to staining.
Lingual Braces: These braces adhere to the back of your teeth, providing an aesthetic option for individuals concerned about the visibility of traditional braces.
Stages of Dental Correction
The process of teeth correction with braces can be broken down into several stages:
Examination and Planning: During the initial consultation, board certified orthodontist Dr. Aaron Crossley examines your teeth using X-rays, photographs, and impressions. This helps develop an individualized treatment plan. At your initial consultation and exam, Dr. Aaron Crossley can explain your individual treatment plan in detail.
Braces Placement: Once the treatment plan is established, Dr. Crossley attaches the brackets to the teeth and secures the archwire with ligatures. This step is usually painless and requires proper sterilization to prevent infection.
Adjustment and Regular Checkups: Dr. Crossley schedules regular checkups, usually every 6-8 weeks, to make adjustments to the braces by tightening the archwire or changing the ligatures. These adjustments align teeth incrementally.
Duration of Treatment: The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the severity of dental misalignment. Typically, treatment lasts between 1-3 years, with regular adjustments during this period.
Benefits of Braces
Proper Teeth Alignment: Braces gradually and gently reposition teeth that are not properly aligned, thereby optimizing their functionality and overall oral health.
Aesthetic Enhancement: Correcting dental misalignment not only enhances the appearance of your smile but also boosts self-confidence.
Speech Correction: Misaligned teeth can sometimes impact speech. With the help of braces, teeth alignment can be improved, resulting in clearer speech and better pronunciation.
Enhanced Hygiene: Straight teeth are more accessible to clean, effectively reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
Bite Improvement: In addition to aligning teeth, braces also address bite irregularities, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites, significantly improving chewing ability and jaw function.
Schedule Your Braces in Frisco, TX Today!
Braces have proven to be a highly effective method for correcting dental misalignment. By exerting gentle, consistent pressure, braces gradually move teeth into proper alignment, improving oral health, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the smile, and providing numerous functional benefits. If you are experiencing dental misalignment, consult with an orthodontist to determine the best treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Dr. Crossley’s qualifications as a board-certified orthodontist and his extensive background in orthodontics makes him a trusted choice in providers. Discuss your options with Dr. Crossley today!
If you’re looking for a board certified orthodontist in Flower Mound, TX, or Frisco, TX, contact our office!
Dr. Crossley is conveniently located at: 12828 Eldorado Pkwy. Suite 100 Frisco, TX 75035 • (214) 556-6868 and 651 Cross Timbers Rd. Suite 100 Flower Mound, TX 75028 • (972) 221-2515