Braces are one of the most common methods for moving teeth into their correct position – this is because they are the most efficient and accurate type of orthodontic appliance. Braces are fixed to the teeth for the duration of your active treatment.
How Braces Work
Braces consist of the following components:
Brackets
These are ‘handles’ which are bonded to the outside surface of teeth using a special adhesive. Silver brackets are the most common type, but clear brackets are also available for aesthetic purposes. Self-ligating brackets have a mechanism which locks the bracket to the archwire without the need for modules or ligatures.
Archwires
These are orthodontic wires which conform to the shape of your dental arch. It is this component that delivers the force to move your teeth. When your braces are first fitted, the archwire may be uneven. Over the course of your treatment the wire will straighten out along with your smile!
Ligatures or Modules
Tiny rubber rings (modules) or fine twisted wires (ligatures) are used to tie the archwire to each bracket. The rubber rings can be coloured and are always changed at every adjustment appointment – so you can have different colours on your braces every 6-8 weeks! Click here to pick your module colours in time for you next appointment – there are 24 colours to choose from.
Bands
Flat metal rings cemented around the back teeth to provide a stronger means of attaching a bracket. Not all patients require bands with their braces.
Caring For Your Braces
Now that your braces are on you will need to understand how to care for your mouth and your appliances to achieve that lovely smile and good bite that we are aiming for! Click here to learn more about properly caring for your braces.