Braces (Orthodontics)

Fixed orthodontic appliances consisting of brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by an archwire. They apply continuous, controlled pressure to move teeth into the desired position over time.

Why It Matters

Beyond aesthetics, correcting malocclusion (bad bite) improves chewing function, speech, and oral hygiene accessibility, reducing the risk of decay and periodontal disease.

Clinical Details

• Mechanism: The pressure causes bone remodeling (resorption on the pressure side, deposition on the tension side), allowing the tooth to move through the jawbone.
• Components: Metal or ceramic brackets, archwires (NiTi or Stainless Steel), and ligatures (elastics).

FAQ

How do braces move teeth?

The archwire attempts to return to its original shape, exerting a force on the brackets that slowly guides the teeth into alignment.