Despite different orthodontic appliances to correct malocclusion, one appliance and treatment method that is most widely used and possibly the oldest one is braces. When you go to an orthodontist North Vancouver, you’ll find out about the different appliances and the entire process of being on braces.

However, what might also help you understand the whole process better is knowing how braces work and the different components of braces. To know everything about how braces work, read on.

The Brackets

The first component of braces that are used when you go for braces treatment is bracketed. Brackets are square-shaped metal components that are stuck to the enamel of each tooth using a dental bonding agent. Each bracket comes with slots. Most brackets are made out of stainless steel, keeping in mind the oral health and hygiene of the patient. And they come in a range of sizes and widths— your orthodontist picks the right size and width after examining your teeth so that you don't feel fatigue after eating.

The Archwires

Archwires are responsible for exerting the intended amount of pressure on your teeth to cause them to move. They come in different sizes, shapes, materials, and thicknesses. And again, pretty much like for brackets, the size, shape, and other features that your orthodontist decides to depend on the complexity of malocclusion and the shape and size of your teeth. These Archwires pass through the slots on the brackets, and they’re tightly held in place so that they don’t move or dislocate when you brush or eat.

Elastics

Elastics, which may or may not be a part of your treatment, are used to create more pressure and added tension at certain points. Besides elastics, other devices that may be used for similar purposes are headgear and springs.

The Mechanism

The bracket, archwires, and elastics exert gentle and consistent pressure over a period of 12 to 18 months or more, depending on the complexity of your case. It is very important to create gentle yet consistent pressure, and various studies have shown that remodelling occurs through such pressure.

Remodelling is a process wherein the ligament around the root part of the teeth and the alveolar bones start to move. And the orthodontic device makes this movement happen. The duration of the treatment depends on the extent to which remodelling occurs every time your wires are tightened or adjusted. And therefore, more pressure does not guarantee a quick and better outcome. Instead, the optimal pressure is what you need for the best results.

That was all about the components involved in malocclusion treatment using braces and what each of the components does to contribute to the treatment. Now that you know what role each component plays and what the exact mechanism is, we’re sure that it would get easier for you to be more patient throughout the process and duration of the treatment as your teeth gradually but definitely reposition to give you a perfect smile and straightly aligned teeth.