It’s common knowledge that wearing braces helps to give you a straight smile… but have you ever wondered exactly how braces straighten your teeth?
The mechanics of braces are very innovative, using a combination of brackets, wires and elastics to help gently apply pressure and shift your teeth slowly over time into correct alignment.
At Peak Orthodontics, braces treatment starts with Dr Perry digitally planning your bracket placement on a 3D model of your teeth. Once this digital precision has been achieved, your brackets are ready to be placed into your customised trays. These customised trays look much like mouthguards and they allow the quick and accurate transfer of the brackets from the tray onto your teeth.
The braces brackets are either stainless steel or a tooth coloured ceramic and are fixed onto each tooth using a temporary adhesive. These brackets are specifically designed for each tooth and act like an anchor for our wires and elastics to grab onto. At Peak Orthodontics, our braces brackets are self-ligating, as shown in the image below.
Ceramic and metal braces combined
Self ligating braces have in-built gates which close over the wires, replacing the need for bands over the top. The example above showcases this process with the open brackets on the top wire. Self ligating braces are good for oral hygiene as it is easier to access the brackets for cleaning and also means less breakages. But if you do want to add a pop of colour into your braces journey, coloured bands can be added at your request.
coloured braces with ceramic braces and metal braces
Once the brackets are fixed to the teeth an archwire is connected to the brackets connecting each tooth. The process of moving the teeth can then start. Slowly and gently, your teeth are moved to suit the shape of the archwire. The first archwires are flexible for comfort and are made of shape memory alloy called Nickel Titanium. This alloy is activated by the heat in your mouth. See below for a great video showcasing how the advanced technology of Nitinol archwires works.
Once the initial movement is achieved, this archwire is removed and replaced by the next archwire in the series. Near the end of the series of wires, our Orthodontist will detail the final tooth movements, ensuring that he is 100% happy with your final results.
Who Are Braces Suited For?
Braces are a tried and tested method for straightening teeth, closing gaps in teeth, and helping with jaw alignment issues. For this reason, braces are essentially suitable for all orthodontic treatments, regardless of whether your teeth have only a little movement required, or if they require more complex intervention.
In addition to this, braces are suitable for all age groups. A common misconception is that braces are only for children and teenagers, however, at Peak Orthodontics we also treat numerous adult braces cases. Our braces are discreet, comfortable and easy to clean. We offer a combination of tooth coloured ceramic braces and metal braces.
How Can You Start Braces Treatment?
In most cases starting braces treatment is an easy process, at Peak Orthodontics there is no referral necessary to book a consultation with Dr John Perry. In addition to this, our initial consultations are complimentary, meaning you don’t have any out-of-pocket costs!
During your initial consultation, our specialist orthodontist will diagnose your case, and explain the treatment options you have available. You will also receive all necessary orthodontic records such as; photos, digital scans, and x-rays if required.
You can book an in person orthodontic consultation online or call our practice on 03 595 6686.