Braces in Oklahoma City & Kingfisher, OK

Dental braces are an orthodontic treatment that is used to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. They consist of brackets, wires, and bands that work together to gradually move teeth into the desired position over time.  

Once you've decided to proceed with braces, the first step is usually to have spacers or separators placed between your back molars. This creates enough space for the bands that hold the brackets in place around each tooth. Next, the brackets are bonded onto each tooth using dental adhesive.

After this, archwires are inserted through each bracket and secured in place with elastic ties or clips. These wires apply gentle pressure on the teeth, which encourages them to shift into a more favorable position over several months or years.

The process of realigning your teeth using braces can take anywhere from 18 months to three years, depending on how much movement is needed and how well you follow your orthodontist's instructions. It's important to maintain good oral hygiene during this time by brushing and flossing regularly, as food particles can easily get trapped under wires and brackets, leading to decay if not cleaned properly. 

Dental braces offer a reliable way of correcting crooked or misaligned teeth while improving overall oral health in many cases.

How Do Dental Braces Work?

Dental braces are devices that help to straighten crooked teeth and correct jaw misalignment. But how do they work? Braces apply continuous pressure on the teeth, gradually moving them into their desired positions over a period of time.

The process begins with an initial consultation with an orthodontist who will evaluate your needs and recommend the best type of braces for you. Once you've decided to proceed with braces, the first step is usually to have spacers or separators placed between your back molars. This creates enough space for the bands that hold the brackets in place on each tooth.  

Next, the brackets are bonded onto each tooth using dental adhesive. After this, archwires are inserted through each bracket and secured in place with elastic ties or clips. Once installed, the wires provide tension and guide the movement of each tooth in a specific direction. In some cases, elastic bands or springs may also be used to enhance this force. 
 
Over time, bone tissue surrounding your teeth is broken down by these forces allowing them to move more easily into position. While it can take months or even years for significant changes in alignment to occur, consistent use of dental braces can result in beautifully straightened smiles! regular adjustments will be required as the teeth move to ensure progress is being made. 

The Different Types of Braces

When it comes to dental braces, there are several types available. The type of braces recommended for you will depend on your specific dental needs and preferences.

• Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces. They consist of metal brackets attached to each tooth with an archwire running through them, which is tightened over time to gradually shift teeth into place.
• Ceramic braces work similarly to traditional metal braces but have clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend in with the teeth and are less noticeable than their metal counterparts.
• Clear aligners such as Invisalign use a series of removable trays made from clear plastic that fits over the teeth like a retainer. These aligners offer greater flexibility and convenience but may not be suitable for more severe orthodontic cases. 
• Self-ligating braces use special clips or doors on the brackets instead of elastic bands to hold wires in place. This design reduces friction between components and can result in faster treatment times with fewer appointments needed.

Discussing your options with an orthodontist is essential when deciding which type of dental brace would best suit your needs.

Conclusion

Dental braces are a highly effective orthodontic treatment that can improve both the aesthetics and functionality of your teeth. They work by applying gentle pressure on the teeth, gradually moving them into their correct position over time. With advancements in technology, there are now several types of dental braces available to cater to different needs and preferences.

If you're considering getting dental braces, it's essential to consult with our experienced orthodontists who can guide you through the process and recommend the best option for your specific case. 
 
With proper care and maintenance during treatment, including regular checkups with your orthodontist, you'll be able to achieve a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. Say goodbye to crooked teeth and hello to newfound confidence! 

Call HEIM ORTHODONTICS at (405) 755-8151 (Oklahoma City, OK) or (405) 375-5328 (Kingfisher, OK) to schedule an online appointment with our orthodontist or to learn more about our orthodontic services.