Ever wondered how braces work? It’s pretty cool. Braces use simple parts to do something complex like straightening teeth. They are not just wires and brackets; they’re a system based on biology and engineering that slowly shifts your teeth. It takes time and patience, but your body adapts and heals throughout the process.
The key to fixing your smile is understanding the science and getting good care. If you are thinking about getting traditional metal braces Alpharetta GA then facilities like Newpark Orthodontics can help. They have different options, tailored to your specific needs. This state-of-art facility is equipped with the latest gear, comfortable and inviting atmosphere, and a team of highly experienced professionals because patient education and individual treatment plan is the key to a complete smile transformation and you will know every step of your smile-changing process.
Biological Design: Bone remodeling
The underlying scientific concept of the functioning of braces resides in some natural process, named bone remodeling. Teeth are not cemented permanently in your jaw bone, they are in fact held in position by a system of ligaments. When the constant but gentle pressure of braces is exerted on a tooth, there exist zones of tension and compression in the bone. On the side of the tooth where pressure is exerted, a special type of cell known as the osteoclast is stimulated. Their role is to dissolve, or absorb the bone.
At the same time, on the other half of the tooth, where tension is generated, other bone building cells, osteoblasts, initiate new bone formation. This process of bone dissolving and depositing, over and again, enables the tooth to slowly travel through the jawbone towards its new and desired position. It is a gradual and restrained process which is very important in terms of the healthiness and stability of the tooth and its supporting functions.
Brackets and Wires: How They Move Teeth
Braces use brackets and wires to put pressure on your teeth.
- Brackets are small squares glued to each tooth.
- A wire goes through the brackets. This wire has to be specifically shaped, so it pushes on the brackets.
- The orthodontist shapes the wire to fit your perfect smile. As the wire tries to get back to its shape, it moves your teeth.
- The orthodontist adjusts the wire over time. Rubber bands hold the wire in place. Sometimes, more bands fix your bite.
Different Ways Teeth Move
Orthodontists can move teeth in different ways:
- Tipping the top of the tooth to move it more towards the bottom.
- Moving the entire tooth.
- Rotating a crooked tooth.
- Moving teeth up, down, forward, or backward.
The orthodontist knows how to use these moves to make your smile perfect.
Don’t Forget Retainers
Once the braces come off, you need to wear a retainer. This keeps your teeth from moving back. Retainers can be wires behind your teeth, clear trays, or plastic. Wear it like you’re told, so your new smile lasts forever.
Braces are science and biology working together. They use careful planning and steady pressure to give you a great smile. If you’re thinking about braces, knowing how they work can make the whole thing easier.
