How Do Braces Actually Work?

Braces can achieve incredible results, whether they are used for cosmetic or medical reasons. There are several different types of braces, all of which work in different ways to help straighten teeth. Understanding the fundamentals of how braces actually work is not only fascinating but can also help you decide whether it’s the right option for you and which type of braces you might need.

Keep reading this short blog from Acorn Dental Health to discover how braces straighten teeth.

How do braces move teeth?

Braces work by exerting constant pressure on the teeth and jaws in order to change their position.

The soft tissue that surrounds a tooth and attaches it to the alveolar bone is called the periodontal ligament, which can stretch or compress as teeth move. Exerting a gentle but constant force on the teeth will cause one side of the tooth to compress against the periodontal ligament, which will create a gap and tension on the opposite side of the tooth.

When this happens, bone-growing cells are produced on the side where the periodontal ligament is being pulled away from the bone, while on the opposite side bone is broken down by bone-destroying cells. So, put simply, old bone is worn away and new bone forms in the gap between the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone created by the brace.

How do braces correct specific dental problems?

Braces are not only used to straighten wonky teeth; they can also be used to tackle a range of dental issues such as overcrowding or an overbite. Here’s how braces work to overcome these common dental concerns.

Overcrowding

Overcrowding occurs when the jaw is too small and/or the teeth are too large. Braces move individual teeth back, forward and sideways in order to make enough room for teeth to comfortably sit side-by-side. 

Depending on circumstances, patients can have an expander fitter to expand their jaw or they could enlist the help of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who can make incisions on either side of the upper jaw to assist expansion.

Tooth extraction is also a common treatment option in cases of overcrowding, as it allows more room for teeth to straighten and sit comfortably alongside one another. An orthodontic specialist will be able to help you find the best option for you and your teeth.

An overbite or overjet

Some people use the terms overjet and overbite interchangeably, but they’re not the same. In both cases, the upper teeth protrude over or in front of the bottom teeth. An overjet is where the upper teeth protrude past the bottom teeth at an angle. With an overbite, the upper teeth still protrude past the bottom teeth but the teeth remain straight or downward, rather than protruding at an angle.

To treat an overbite, the upper front teeth may be moved up, the lower front teeth moved down, or a combination of both. Alternatively, the lower back teeth may be brought up to make the lower jaw swing open slightly. With an overjet, the front teeth may be moved backwards or the lower teeth moved forward or a combination of both, dependent on the patient’s individual circumstances.

Need help straightening your teeth? Look no further than Acorn Dental Health. Make your appointment today or contact us for more information about our orthodontic services.