Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Dental Braces - Knowing more about it

By David Stogner

Dental braces, also known as orthodontic braces, are used to fix the alignment of the teeth. The position of the teeth can also be fixed, but this depends on the individual's bite. The teeth problems that can be addressed through the use of the braces are overbites, underbites, open bites, and cross bites. The most common issue being resolved is crooked teeth. Other orthodontic tools are also used in order to properly shape the jaws and teeth. It is commonly used on teenagers and children.

How do braces work? Since teeth will only move when force is applied. The arch wire of the metal braces applies the force onto the teeth. This will help the teeth move to their proper position. During the monthly adjustment of the braces, the teeth are able to move by about a millimeter. But this will completely depend on the case of the individual. Other methods are also used that can affect how the teeth will move.

The most usual brace that is used is the traditional metal brace. It is usually made out of stainless steel, but sometimes nickel titanium is also combined with it. There are a lot of orthodontic suppliers that provide the traditional metal brace. Ligating brackets are used to reduce the friction between the bracket slot and the wire.

Clear braces: This is usually used as the alternative for metal braces because they will blend easily with the color of the teeth. The materials that are used for this kind are either plastic alloy or ceramic, but its function is pretty much the same with the stainless steel braces. White metal ties and clear elastic ties are usually used in combination with clear braces to make the device less noticeable. The friction is higher for this device as compared to metal braces which makes it more brittle and easily breaks. Due to this it is harder to remove the brace at the end of the treatment.

Lingual braces - This kind of brace is not visible because it is placed behind the teeth. This type is harder to adjust because the tongue can get in the way. A dentist must be trained in Lingual techniques before he is able to offer lingual braces.

Lingual braces are located behind the teeth. This looks better as compared to the traditional brace, but it is more difficult to adjust because it can affect the tongue's movement. A dentist must undergo training for lingual techniques before he can offer this kind of brace to patients.

Progressive clear retainers: This is sold in the market having the brand name of Invisalign. This is used to slowly position the teeth in their final places. This provides the same effect as the braces; the only difference is that they can be removed easily before eating. Though, this is not used for complicated teeth problems.

Shaped braces have a pad that can have different shapes such as round, heart, star, diamond and the like. While non-shaped braces only make use of a pad with a square shape. This kind of brace is provided by the WildSmile Brackets and it works the same as the non-shaped brackets. - 15266

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