How Do Braces Align Your Teeth?

BONDING BRACKETS

Once the treatment plan is in place, the first step is to attach brackets to your teeth. Brackets are small, square-shaped metal or ceramic attachments that are bonded to the front surface of each tooth using a dental adhesive. In some cases, the brackets may be attached to the back of the teeth for a more discreet appearance.

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WIRE PLACEMENT

After the brackets are in place, an archwire is threaded through them. The archwire is a thin, flexible wire that connects the brackets and provides the necessary force to move the teeth. The orthodontist carefully selects the archwire, considering the desired tooth movements and treatment goals. cielodental.com

ELASTIC BANDS

In addition to the archwire, elastic bands, or rubber bands, may be used to apply additional force to guide the teeth into their correct positions. These bands are attached to hooks on the brackets and are changed periodically as the treatment progresses.

REGULAR ADJUSTMENTS

You will need to visit your orthodontist regularly for adjustments. During these appointments, the orthodontist will tighten or replace the archwire, change elastic bands if necessary, and make any other necessary modifications to ensure the teeth continue to move in the desired direction.

GRADUAL TOOTH MOVEMENT

As you wear braces, the archwire and elastic bands exert constant pressure on your teeth. This pressure stimulates the bone surrounding the teeth, causing it to remodel and adapt to the new tooth positions. Over time, the teeth gradually shift, aligning themselves to the desired configuration.

RETENTION PHASE

Once your teeth have been moved into their proper positions, the active phase of orthodontic treatment ends. However, to maintain the alignment achieved, you will need to wear a retainer. Retainers are custom-made appliances that hold the teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone stabilizes. They can be removable or fixed, depending on your orthodontist's recommendation.