Some people imagine that braces are applied… and then one day, they just come off! Actually, there are lots of steps and interventions from start to finish while your teeth shift. Today, Kottemann Orthodontics will give you some information on this treatment and answer the question: Why are adjustments and tightening necessary with braces?
Two Main Types of Braces
Excluding clear aligners, there are two main options for braces: either clear or metal.
- Clear braces are made from polycrystalline ceramic material, providing a near-invisible appearance that closely resembles natural teeth. These braces are practical and aesthetically pleasing, making them an ideal choice for adult patients who want a more discreet option than metal braces but aren’t quite ready for clear aligners.
- Metal braces, featuring durable metal brackets and traditional components, are a classic and highly efficient choice. They are often more cost-effective and particularly suitable for children due to their resilience against physical activities and other potential factors that may pose a risk to the appliance.
Why Braces?
Each patient brings unique factors that shape their personalized treatment plan. At Kottemann Orthodontics, we consider the following common factors:
- Age significantly impacts the treatment approach and the response of teeth and jaws to orthodontic care. Children often experience quicker responses due to their more flexible tissues, while adults may face more complex issues that require longer-term solutions.
- The severity of orthodontic problems is a crucial factor that influences treatment. It determines the duration and complexity of the treatment plan, as well as any supplementary measures that may be necessary.
- Anatomical variations in the size and shape of teeth, jaw positioning, and the thickness of gingival tissue also play a role in treatment planning and mechanics.
- Pre-existing conditions, such as gum disease, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or systemic health issues, may require additional coordination and care between our office and other healthcare providers.
Making Adjustments
So, why do adjustments need to be made to this type of appliance? There are a lot of reasons!
- Continuous Pressure: Over time, as your teeth begin to shift, the pressure applied by the wires and brackets decreases. Since our teeth move in response to consistent, gentle pressure, tightening the braces restores this pressure and promotes further movement.
- Treatment Progress: Each of your adjustments is made in conjunction with your treatment progress. One of our doctors will monitor the movement of your teeth over time with these adjustment appointments, always referring back to your custom treatment plan for reference.
- Addressing Issues: We can also use these visits as opportunities to address any broken brackets, loose wires, or other problems that might arise. This assures your treatment is progressing smoothly.
- Preventing Prolonged Treatment: Without keeping up with your regular adjustments, your teeth’s movement will be stalled. Tightening routinely ensures your treatment stays within the expected timeframe and doesn’t persist longer than necessary.
An Overview of the Process
Now, let’s go over how we go about giving patients braces, and where exactly those adjustments come into the process.
- Initial Consult: At your first appointment, you’ll meet with one of our doctors for a comprehensive examination of your teeth, jaws, and overall oral health. During this visit, we’ll discuss your treatment goals.
- Imaging: We will use x-rays, digital scans, and impressions to assess the alignment of your teeth and the positioning of your roots. While traditional dental impressions are made with a putty-like material, many offices now use digital methods for greater precision throughout the treatment process.
- Treatment Planning: Based on our discussion and your medical history, your provider will create a personalized treatment plan and explain it thoroughly.
- Fabrication: Once all plans are finalized, we’ll send the data to a dental lab, where your braces will be custom-made to fit your teeth.
- Application: Your braces will be applied at a separate appointment. During this process:
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- We’ll clean and dry your teeth to prepare for bonding.
- Special adhesive will be used to bond the brackets to the front of your teeth.
- Archwires will be threaded through the brackets and secured with small elastic bands, which can be clear or a color of your choice.
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- Adjustment Appointments: Throughout your treatment, you’ll have your periodic appointments to adjust the braces, such as changing the archwire or replacing ligatures.
- Monitoring Progress: We’ll see you regularly to monitor your progress and ensure your teeth are moving according to plan. Periodic x-rays or scans may be taken to track movement and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
- Braces Removal: Once your teeth are in their new positions, we’ll carefully remove the braces, detach the brackets, and remove any remaining adhesive.
- Retention Phase: After removing the braces, you may need to wear a retainer to maintain the new position of your teeth. We’ll provide instructions on wearing your retainer and the duration it should be worn.
- Follow-Up Appointments: We’ll schedule follow-up appointments to check the longevity and stability of your results after completing the treatment. Our expert team will continue to be your primary resource for any new concerns or questions.
One Step at a Time
As a team, our primary goal is to provide personalized care and attention to each patient’s needs. Rest assured, we are professionals in our field and look forward to starting this orthodontic journey with you! For more information, please contact one of our four renowned offices in Chaska, Maple Grove, Orono, or Plymouth.