Friday, November 29, 2013

How Do Braces Get Put On

Preparation


The orthodontist cleans the teeth to provide a good mounting surface for the brace brackets. Some people only get braces on upper or lower teeth, and some only need them for the front of their mouth to help align the teeth better. Whether getting a full set or a partial, the process is the same.


Brackets


Individual pieces called brackets are affixed to each tooth using a dental cement. This cement is very strong and will not show. The brackets come in different colors, traditional silver, and even clear. These brackets are the anchor that will allow your orthodontist to align your teeth.


Wires


The orthodontist will thread a thin wire between the brackets and affix it at the end of the row. This wire is what's used to tighten the braces. It basically acts as a winch. When your braces need to be tightened, which is what makes them work by pulling the teeth, the orthodontist can clamp the end of the wire, twist it and cut off the excess.

Tags: