BRACES - Introduction

How do braces straighten crooked teeth?

Braces use constant, gentle pressure, which over time, move teeth into their proper positions. Your braces are at work every moment of your orthodontic treatment. The two main components of your braces are: the brackets that are placed on your teeth and the main archwire that connects them.

The wire threads through the brackets and applies pressure to move your teeth through the bone. Using different type of wire and various adjustments made to the wire move the teeth in the required direction.

Attached to your braces, elastics (rubber bands) exert the proper force that creates the right amount of pressure to move teeth. In order for this force to remain constant, elastics must be worn all the time and changed every day.

Different Types of Braces

Metal braces are made from stainless steel and are the most popular with kids and teenagers. They love using different colors of ligature ties. These braces are much smaller and more comfortable than ever before. Gold braces are metal braces coated with 24 karat gold.

Translucent clear ceramic braces are the most popular with adults. They are much less noticeable than conventional metal braces. However, because the ceramic material can be abrasive to enamel, they can only be placed on the upper teeth in most cases. They are also more expensive.

Invisalign is a treatment option that utilizes clear plastic "aligner" to move the teeth. Dr. Gehring will be able to tell you whether or not you are a candidate for Invisalign.