Braces are designed to move teeth into their desired positions through a combination of precise planning, applied forces, and the natural response of the body. Here’s how braces know where to move your teeth:
1. Detailed Orthodontic Planning
- Initial Assessment:
- The process begins with a comprehensive assessment of your teeth, jaw, and bite. Orthodontists use X-rays, digital scans, photographs, and impressions to create a detailed map of your mouth.
- Customised Treatment Plan:
- Based on this assessment, the orthodontist develops a customised treatment plan that outlines the specific movements needed to achieve the desired alignment. This plan determines where each tooth should move and how much force is required.
2. Brackets and Archwires
- Brackets Placement:
- Brackets are small metal or ceramic pieces that are attached to the front of each tooth with a special adhesive. The placement of these brackets is crucial, as it determines the direction and amount of force applied to each tooth.
- Archwires:
- An archwire, which runs through the brackets, is the main component that guides the movement of your teeth. The archwire is shaped according to the ideal alignment of your teeth. As it tries to return to its original shape, it applies pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position.
3. Continuous Adjustment
- Regular Adjustments:
- Throughout the treatment, the orthodontist makes regular adjustments to the archwire and, sometimes, the brackets. These adjustments ensure that the right amount of pressure is applied to each tooth, guiding them closer to their final positions.
- Elastic Bands and Springs:
- In some cases, elastic bands or springs are used in conjunction with the archwire to apply additional forces, helping to correct bite issues or move teeth that require more complex adjustments.
4. The Body’s Natural Response
- Bone Remodeling:
- When pressure is applied to a tooth, it causes a biological response in the surrounding bone. The bone on one side of the tooth begins to break down (resorption), while new bone forms on the opposite side (deposition). This process, known as bone remodeling, allows the tooth to move into its new position.
- Teeth Movement Over Time:
- Teeth move slowly over time as the bone remodels, allowing them to shift without causing damage to the surrounding tissues.
Conclusion
Braces move teeth by applying carefully calculated forces that are directed through custom-designed brackets and archwires. The orthodontist’s expertise in planning and adjusting these forces, combined with the body’s natural bone remodeling process, ensures that each tooth moves to its correct position. Regular check-ups and adjustments help guide the teeth along the planned path, ultimately resulting in a straight and healthy smile.
