If you’ve ever wondered, “What do braces do for your teeth?” you’re not alone.
Braces are an essential orthodontic tool, often associated with adolescents, but they are also a great treatment for adults who seek to improve their smile.
We believe that understanding how braces work can help you make an informed decision about whether this treatment is right for you.
So, let’s dive into the world of braces and uncover how they help transform your teeth and your smile.
What Do Braces Do for Your Teeth?
Braces are a dental appliance that uses a system of brackets, wires, and bands to gradually shift your teeth into better alignment. The key to how braces work lies in their ability to apply constant, gentle pressure to your teeth over time. This pressure is what makes the teeth move. The bone surrounding your teeth adapts to these changes, allowing for a healthier, straighter smile.
Essentially, braces help realign teeth that are crooked, misaligned, or suffering from bite issues. Whether it’s overcrowding, gaps, overbites, or underbites, braces can correct a variety of orthodontic concerns, improving both function and aesthetics.
Types of Braces
Most dental clinics offer a variety of braces to meet your unique needs and preferences. Here are the most common types:
- Traditional Metal Braces: The most common and cost-effective option, traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires that are tightened over time.
- Ceramic Braces: These work similarly to metal braces but are less noticeable because the brackets are made from a clear or tooth-colored material.
- Invisalign: These clear aligners offer a more discreet option for adults and teens who don’t want the visibility of traditional braces. Invisalign aligners are removable. This means that you can eat, drink, and clean your teeth more easily.
What Issues Can Braces Fix?
Braces can address a variety of oral issues, including:
Aligning Crooked Teeth
If your teeth are misaligned or crowded, it can be difficult to clean them properly. This leads to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Braces apply consistent pressure to move your teeth into more favorable positions, improving the overall alignment of your smile.
Braces typically use a system of metal or ceramic brackets bonded to the surface of your teeth. These are connected by an archwire that is periodically tightened to apply pressure. Over time, your teeth gradually shift into their proper alignment.
Fixing Bite Problems
Braces are excellent at correcting bite issues, such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. Common bite problems include:
Overbite: When the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth.
Underbite: When the lower teeth extend beyond your upper teeth.
Crossbite: When some upper teeth sit behind lower teeth.
Braces can help realign your bite, reducing discomfort and preventing long-term damage to your teeth and jaw.
Improving Oral Health
Braces not only help in improving the appearance of your smile but also contribute to better overall oral health. Misaligned teeth make it difficult to clean certain areas of your mouth, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease.
By straightening your teeth with braces, you’re not just enhancing the aesthetics of your smile but also improving your oral hygiene.
Reducing Jaw and TMJ Pain
Many people with misaligned teeth or bite issues experience jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. These disorders can cause a range of symptoms, including jaw clicking, pain while chewing, and headaches. By realigning your teeth and correcting bite problems, braces can help reduce or even eliminate TMJ symptoms, leading to less pain and a more comfortable bite.
Creating a Beautiful Smile
A straighter smile is often a more confident one, and this is one of the most significant benefits of braces. Crooked, uneven teeth can make people feel self-conscious about their appearance. But when braces do their magic and straighten your teeth, it’s a game-changer for your self-esteem.
Long-Term Benefits: Permanent Results
Once your treatment is complete, you’ll enjoy a beautifully aligned smile for years to come. While it’s essential to wear a retainer as prescribed by your orthodontist to prevent your teeth from shifting back, the changes made by braces are permanent.
How Long Does the Treatment Take?
The length of time you’ll need to wear braces depends on your specific orthodontic needs. Generally, treatment lasts anywhere from 18 months to 3 years.
However, this can vary based on the complexity of the treatment, the type of braces you choose, and how well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions.
Conclusion
So, when you ask, “What do braces do?” the answer is clear. Braces provide a comprehensive solution for realigning your teeth, improving your bite, enhancing your smile, and boosting your overall oral health.
With the right treatment, you can enjoy the benefits of a straighter, healthier smile for years to come.
Ready for a New Smile?
If you’re considering braces, it’s time to take the next step. At Ammons Dental by Design, we offer personalized orthodontic solutions tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find out how braces can transform your smile!
FAQs
How quickly do teeth move with braces?
Teeth typically begin to shift within a few days of starting braces, but noticeable changes usually take a few weeks. The speed of movement depends on individual factors such as age, treatment complexity, and the type of braces.
Can braces change the shape of your face?
Braces primarily focus on teeth alignment, but they can slightly influence facial appearance by correcting bite issues and jaw alignment. Major changes in facial structure typically occur with jaw surgery or other orthodontic treatments.
What is the best age to get braces?
The best age for braces is generally between 10 and 14 when the mouth and jaw are still growing. However, braces can be effective for adults as well, with many achieving excellent results at any age.
