In need of braces? You’re not alone! Braces are one of the most common orthodontic solutions on the market. In fact, it’s reported that around 45% of people need braces to treat functional problems– and we can assume that even more people would benefit from braces to correct less serious teeth alignment issues. 

If you’ve recently discovered that you may need orthodontic treatment, you’re probably curious to know more about how braces work, what their benefits are, and what to expect from day to day when wearing them. The Tomken Dental team is here to provide you with the answers!

What are Braces?

While there are several types of braces, the type that most people are familiar with is the classic, metal braces. These braces feature brackets (usually made of metal) that are adhered to each individual tooth and connected by a metal archwire. But to really understand how braces work, we’ll need to explore all the different parts of braces and how they interact to improve smiles and restore functionality. 

Brackets

As previously mentioned, brackets are small squares that are adhered to your teeth by dental cement. Once pressure is applied to the brackets, they start to reposition your teeth little by little over time. 

Brackets are unusually made of metal, but can also be made of plastic or ceramic. 

Archwires

Archwires are thin metal wires that connect the brackets along each row of your teeth. Archwires keep pressure applied to the brackets and are adjusted periodically to move your teeth into alignment. Archwires can be made of stainless steel, nickel-titanium, or copper titanium.

Bands

Sometimes called O-rings or ligatures, elastic bands are attached to brackets to help guide teeth into position. 

Spacers

Commonly made of rubber bands or metal, spacers are sometimes placed between molars to push the jaw forward thereby adding space to the back of the mouth. Spacers are not always needed with braces and are usually used no more than two weeks at a time. 

Springs

Springs are sometimes placed on the archwire to push teeth apart, creating space between them. 

How Braces are Installed

The procedure for braces installation is relatively straightforward and can often be completed in as little as an hour. Here’s what to expect when you go in for your braces procedure: 

• The doctor cleans and dries your teeth. 
• A dental adhesive is applied to the front of your teeth.
• The brackets are affixed to the teeth.
• The archwires are installed into the brackets. 
• Elastic bands are attached to secure the archwires. 

Does it Hurt?

If you’re feeling anxious about your upcoming braces procedure, don’t worry! Getting your braces installed will not hurt. However, you may be a little sore for the first week after the installation. 

Each time you visit your orthodontist for a readjustment (every eight to ten weeks), expect some soreness for the first couple of days after. 

Cleaning and Maintaining You Braces

For the sake of your teeth’ health, you should always practice caution when it comes to the types of foods you eat. That goes double when wearing braces. This is because food can become trapped between your braces and your gum line, potentially leading to tartar buildup and even tooth decay.  

For this reason, sticky, sugary foods like candy should be avoided. Also avoid any foods that have the potential to get stuck in your teeth, like popcorn, potato chips, or other high-starch foods. 

To help keep your braces clean and your teeth free of buildup, be sure to brush after each meal and floss twice per day. You may also consider purchasing an interdental toothbrush– a special kind of toothbrush that is able to clean around all the intricate parts of your braces. 

Most importantly, make sure to come in for your teeth cleanings every six months to keep your teeth healthy, and your doctor apprised of any problems that might develop. 

Get the Smile You Deserve

If you’re in need of orthodontic treatment, or you simply want a straighter, more attractive smile, braces are an ideal solution. As long as you make sure to keep your teeth clean and come in for your adjustments every eight to ten weeks, you’ll achieve the smile of your dreams in no time. 

So what are you waiting for? Contact Tomken Dental to schedule your consultation today!