What Are Braces? How Do They Work?
When you think about orthodontics, you probably think about braces. Braces can be made of different materials and designs, but they all have the same goal: straightening your teeth to the ideal positioning.
Braces work by exerting enough pressure to slowly change the position of your teeth. In doing so, they allow your bones, gums, and other soft tissues in your mouth time to adjust and anchor your teeth in their new positions. The pressure is gentle, and during your appointments, Dr. Vinson will adjust them to progress your treatment along while ensuring your comfort.
Some types of dental braces are made out of metal brackets and wires, while others are made out of ceramic material. Braces require some sort of rubber band or tie to help keep the archwire in place, while the brackets are secured to each tooth with a glue-like bonding agent. Other types of braces are “self-ligating,” which means they have a built-in slide mechanism that keeps the braces wire in place without any need for bands.
Braces can help treat many different and complex orthodontic issues, including crooked teeth, gapped teeth, and crowded teeth. Patients of all ages can benefit from braces: children, teens, and adults alike!