Patient education is becoming recognized as one of the most important aspects of receiving care. In days past, it was common for patients to trust their medical providers simply because they were the doctor. Modern patients are taking more initiative in their care and are motivated to be able to make choices in their treatment. This is as accurate in dentistry as it is in other medical fields. When you’re scheduled for an orthodontic procedure, your dentist will take the time to educate you on what it entrails. This article was produced for those who are proactive about patient education.
The Role Of Braces In Our Oral Health
We all know that braces are used in dental care to adjust the placement and position of our teeth. It is less common for patients to understand the details involved with how these adjustments are made. Braces achieve their goals by applying pressure to the teeth in precise ways. This pressure adjusts the position of the teeth in the jaw by altering the shape of the bone. As the bone softens and gives way to the adjustment, it regrows and hardens behind it. Over time the bone in the direction of motion will also harden. This requires the braces to be adjusted so the bone can soften enough to begin moving again. This process is continued until the teeth have moved into their final position.
There are a few standard components involved in this process. These include:
- Brackets – These small mounts are attached to your teeth during the orthodontic procedure. While they were once limited to a dull grey, they come in various colors and styles today. Among them is a ceramic-colored variety that obscures their presence from casual observers.
- Archwires – These wires are comprised of a specialized material that responds to the body’s warmth by stiffening. This aids them in applying precise pressure to the teeth being adjusted. They will be adjusted repeatedly during your follow-ups after the braces are placed. These adjustments ensure that the desired result is achieved.
- O-Rings – These elastic bands are known as ligatures and are designed to secure the archwires. Similar to the brackets, they are available in a variety of colors. Whether you want to downplay your braces or turn them into a dazzling rainbow, options are available.
These three parts work in concert to achieve the desired adjustment of your teeth. While moving, your teeth modify more than just your jawbone. They’ll also stretch and ultimately strengthen a membrane responsible for securing your teeth in place.
Contact Your Dentist For Further Information
The above covers the important details of your orthodontic treatment. However, it’s important to remember that every type of orthodontic care is different. Each patient’s case will involve different forms of adjustment and arrangements of the orthodontic appliance. Consult with your dental provider to clarify the details of your procedure. Remember, educating yourself about your care is essential to getting the best results from your treatments.