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Procedures for Braces

If crooked teeth make your smile less than perfect, you might want to straighten your teeth with braces. Braces correct misalignments like spaces between teeth, overbites and crooked teeth by applying gentle, constant force over time to move the teeth and their roots into the proper position. This takes time, though, because too much pressure too soon can damage teeth. The thought of going through with months or years of orthodontia can be overwhelming, but understanding how braces work can make the process easier.

  1. Consultation

    • At your consultation, the orthodontist will examine your teeth to see if you are a candidate for braces. Preliminary tests include X-rays and impressions, or casts, of the teeth. The orthodontist studies these tests to determine the best plan of action for your treatment. This is also the time to discuss different types of braces with your orthodontist. Treatment can last from six months to three years because teeth move, with force, approximately 1 mm a month.

    Process

    • Several days before your braces will be applied, spacers will be placed between your molars to make room for the metal bands that will be placed on your back teeth. When it is time to get your braces, the spacers will be removed. The orthodontist will etch the teeth and a bonding agent will be applied to strengthen the connection between the teeth and the composite material that holds the braces and teeth together. The orthodontist will apply the composite to each tooth, and then small square pieces of metal called brackets will be attached to the teeth. Metal bands will be placed on the first molars. The orthodontist will then use a special light to harden the composite. He will end the procedure by slipping an arched wire through the brackets before placing small rubber bands or ligatures on the brackets.

    Removal

    • Removing your braces will take far less time than it did to affix them to your teeth. The ligatures and arch wire are removed. Then the orthodontist will use special pliers to squeeze or separate the brackets from the teeth. There can be cement or composite left on the teeth, so the orthodontist will scrape it off, then polish your teeth to ensure they are smooth.

    Retainers

    • After your braces are removed, you will have to wear a retainer to keep them in place. A retainer is a custom-made mouth piece that will maintain your teeth's new alignment. The orthodontist will give you the retainer shortly after your braces are removed and will instruct you on how long to wear it. If the retainer is not worn, teeth can shift back to their original misalignment.

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