How Braces Work

Have you ever wondered how brackets and wire work together to move teeth into a different position? While there may be some discomfort here and there, you don’t feel your teeth moving, so how does it work? The way braces move teeth is that they exert a constant pressure on them for an extended period of time. The jaw also conforms to this pressure to create a more aligned bite.

The brackets are metal or ceramic pieces that are glued to the front surface of the teeth. They make it possible for pressure to be evenly applied to the teeth using connecting archwire. The wire is held in place by small elastics that are offered in a variety of colors. They are what puts pressure on the teeth to move them into a preferred placement. We apply new elastics at each visit.

The rubber bands, called ligatures, are placed around the brackets to add to the pressure on the jaw. They are typically placed on one or more of the upper braces and connected to the corresponding lower braces. This helps adjust your bite into a better position.

Not everyone needs spacers, but they may be applied to molars to help push the jaw forward and space out to the back of the mouth. They also give the back teeth more room if the teeth are crowded too tightly together.

This entire system enables your teeth to move by stretching the periodontal membrane in which the bottom of the teeth are encased. As one side of the membrane is stretched, the other side is compressed, which allows teeth to slightly loosen. New bone growth, or bone remodeling, occurs as a result to support the tooth and hold it in its new position.

Before you know it, your teeth and jaw are aligned in a better position. If you have any questions about orthodontic treatment in Southfield, MI, please call our office to schedule a consultation today.