Far too often, people walk through life feeling self-conscious about their teeth. Having imperfect teeth can make you avoid smiling and laughing, cover your mouth unnecessarily, and feel less attractive than you are. There is no reason to experience all of this, however.

Orthodontic braces have been created for anyone who would benefit from straighter, more even teeth. What exactly are orthodontic braces? What types of braces are most effective? And how do braces work, anyway? Let’s explore these essential dentistry questions so you can begin your journey to the self-confident, healthy smile you deserve.

What are orthodontic braces?

Astonishingly, orthodontic braces, often referred to more simply as braces, have existed since the days of Aristotle. It seems that even in ancient times, humans valued the beauty of straight, healthy teeth. However, braces have come a long way since then; fortunately, we no longer make them out of animal intestines and fibre.

However, today’s highly innovative braces still serve similar purposes as they always did. Braces can equalise uneven teeth, straighten teeth, and address underbites and overbites. Perhaps most important of all, braces have the power to improve lives. From helping people floss, chew, and speak more easily to improving self-image. Orthodontic braces change lives.

What are the components of braces?

When you receive braces, you will find they are presented with a handful of components. However, when we understand what these items are and how they are used, they become quite easy to work with. Your dentist may send you home with any of the following:

• Rubber Bands – These are removable and flexible. Usually used to bind the upper and lower teeth together, they create pressure that eventually helps to correct bite.
• Brackets – Square pieces of metal or ceramic, these fixtures are attached to the teeth. This is what we often imagine when we think “Braces.”

How do braces work?

Now that we are familiar with some of the most common components of braces, we can finally explore the question, how do braces work? In general, braces work by doing the following:

1. Your body is nice and warm and, incredibly, that heat activates the archwires.
2. The archwires then put a healthy dose of pressure on the brackets.
3. The brackets, then, place pressure on your teeth, coaxing them in the correct direction.
4. Rubber bands, if you have them, add to this force.

Essentially, orthodontic braces put a tiny amount of sustained pressure on your teeth, and that changes your bone structure a little bit each month.

Types of Braces

There are two popular types of braces: orthodontic braces and Invisalign. To know which type of braces is best for your situation, it helps first to become familiar with both.

Traditional Orthodontic Braces

Traditional braces have a long-standing reputation of being powerful at aligning teeth and correcting bite issues. For years, people have depended on metal braces to turn their imperfect smile into a beautiful one, and their uncomfortable bite into a pleasant one.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces have become popular in recent years because they blend easily with teeth. Some dentists can even apply ceramic braces to the back of your teeth, allowing for even greater subtlety.

Both types of braces can be used for even highly complex teeth issues.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses plastic, clear trays to move teeth over time. Your dentist will take photographs of your teeth and then make custom-tailored trays that you switch out every couple of weeks for the duration of your treatment.

Final Words

You no longer need to walk through the world lacking self-confidence or hiding your smile. On the contrary, you deserve to laugh often, show off your teeth, and feel great about your appearance. If you’re struggling with basic functions like chewing, explore your orthodontic options. Let our professional staff and gentle dentist at Dental Spot introduce you to the wonders of braces.

If you would like to learn more about orthodontic braces or Invisalign, call Dental Spot on (02) 9158 6115 or email us at info@dentalspot.com.au. Our helpful staff is happy to answer your questions.