Metal braces are a common orthodontic treatment used to straighten and align teeth. They work by applying continuous pressure on the teeth, causing them to gradually move into the desired position over time. Here’s a basic overview of how metal braces work:
- Bracket Placement: Small metal brackets are attached to each tooth using a special dental adhesive. These brackets act as anchors for the braces.
- Archwire: An archwire is then threaded through the brackets. This wire is usually made of a flexible and durable material, such as stainless steel.
- Elastics and Ligatures: Elastics or rubber bands may be used to help with the movement of the teeth by exerting additional force. Ligatures, which are small rubber bands or wires, secure the archwire to the brackets.
- Continuous Pressure: The archwire, along with any additional components like elastics, applies a constant and gentle force on the teeth. This force puts pressure on the teeth and their supporting structures (bone, gums) to encourage them to move.
- Bone Remodeling: As the teeth move, the bone around them undergoes a process called remodeling. Bone cells are broken down on one side of the tooth and rebuilt on the other, allowing the tooth to reposition itself in the jaw.
- Adjustments: Periodic adjustments are necessary during the course of treatment. Orthodontists will tighten or replace the archwire, change elastics, or make other modifications to ensure that the teeth continue to progress towards the desired alignment.
- Retainers: After the active phase of treatment is complete, patients are often required to wear retainers. Retainers help prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions by maintaining the corrected alignment.
Can metal braces be removed
Metal braces are not designed to be removed by the wearer. They are a fixed orthodontic appliance that is professionally installed and adjusted by an orthodontist. The process of removing metal braces involves the following steps:
- Evaluation: Before removal, the orthodontist will evaluate the progress of the treatment to ensure that the teeth have moved into their desired positions.
- Wire and Ligature Removal: The orthodontist will begin by removing the ligatures (rubber bands or wires) that secure the archwire to the brackets.
- Archwire Removal: The archwire, which runs through the brackets, will then be removed.
- Bracket Removal: The brackets, which are attached to each tooth with a special dental adhesive, will be carefully detached.
- Cleaning: Any remaining adhesive on the teeth will be cleaned off, and the teeth will be polished.
- Retention Phase: After the braces are removed, patients often enter the retention phase of treatment. This involves wearing retainers to help prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
It’s important to note that the duration of treatment varies from person to person, depending on the severity of the misalignment. Regular check-ups with the orthodontist are crucial to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments. Advances in orthodontic technology, such as heat-activated archwires and smaller brackets, have made metal braces more comfortable and efficient over the years.