Braces

How do braces straighten crooked teeth?

Smiling Girl with Braces

Braces use constant, gentle pressure, which over time, move teeth into their proper positions. Your braces are at work every moment of your orthodontic treatment. The two main components of your braces are: the brackets that are placed on your teeth and the main archwire that connects them. The bracket is a piece of shaped metal or ceramic that we precisely affix to each tooth. The archwire  threads through the brackets and, as the wire tries to return to its original shape, it applies gentle pressure to move your teeth. The archwire is also adjusted to reflect your “ideal” bite. In other words, it’s the way we want you to fit and  look after treatment. To discuss getting braces in the area, please feel free to contact us to schedule an appointment.


 Different Types of Braces

Metal braces are the most popular with kids and teenagers. They love changing different colored ties at each appointment. Metal brackets are getting smaller than before. We use a mini brace system which is 1/3 smaller than standard bracket systems and is also lower in profile. The microArch brackets we use are one of the smallest and most comfortable braces available.

Translucent clear ceramic braces are the most popular with adults. You have to be very close to someone to be able to see them. They are more fragile than metal braces and are best utilized in the upper arch for aesthetic reasons.

Self-ligating braces reduce the friction between braces and wires by eliminating use of ligature ties. Theoretically, it may reduce appointment and treatment times. The majority of self ligating bracket systems are more bulky than mini or microArch brackets and can be harder getting used to. Since they do not require the use of ligature ties, if you wish to change color ties at each appointment, these brackets may not be for you. Please contact DR. Kmentt if you would like to discuss these options.