|
Braces
Braces are a common method of changing one's appearance. They are usually placed by
an
orthodontist or an experienced general dentist. Orthodontics is the dental field that
involves the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of problems caused by poorly positioned
teeth. When teeth are out of position they
sometimes look unaesthetic but also are more
susceptible to periodontal (gum) disease and dental decay. A poor bite can also stress your
jaw joints (TMJs) and muscles and cause pain.
There are different types of treatments to correct the position of teeth. There are fixed
and removable appliances. These appliances gently move the teeth and bone until they
are in a desirable position. The most common
type of fixed appliance are 'braces'. The braces
consist of a bracket, made out of plastic, metal, or ceramics, and an arch wire which connects
them. The teeth are moved by adjusting the pressures on the teeth by the
archwire. Sometimes,
springs or rubber bands are used to help. In certain instances the brackets can be placed on the
lingual or inside surface of the teeth so they are less visible. These braces are tightened
periodically and some discomfort is felt at that time.
The length of time it takes to move the teeth to the desired location varies from person to
person. The average is from 18 months to
30 months for children and may be longer for adults.
The time depends on the difficulty of the case, the amount of room available, the distance the
teeth must travel, the cooperativity of the patient and the bone and
the age of the patient. In
some adults braces can't correct the problem and jaw surgery is necessary. After the braces
come off a removable retainer is used to keep the teeth from moving back to their original
positions. This retainer must be used. Sometimes it is still used years after the braces come off. |
|
