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  • Writer's pictureDr. Sameer Bhandari

How Braces Work: The Science Of Straightening Teeth


Are you considering braces? Do you want to know how they actually work to align your teeth? Well, you’ve come to the right place!

Braces work by putting pressure on your teeth and gradually moving them into the desired position. The pressure is generated by the brackets and wires that are attached to your teeth. The brackets are usually made of metal, ceramic, or plastic, and the wires are made of metal or plastic.

The type of braces you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Metal braces are the most common type of braces. They are strong and effective, but they are also very visible. Ceramic braces are made of clear or white ceramic, so they are less visible than metal braces. Invisalign is a type of clear aligner that is virtually invisible.

If you are considering braces, it is important to consult with an orthodontist to determine the best course of treatment for you.


1. Introduction

Braces are one of the most common treatments for crooked teeth. But how do they work? In this article, we'll take a look at the science behind braces and how they help to straighten teeth.

Crooked teeth are often caused by a misalignment of the jaw. This can lead to problems with chewing and speaking, as well as an increased risk of gum disease. Braces work by slowly moving the teeth into their correct position. This process is called orthodontic treatment.

There are different types of braces, but they all work in basically the same way. they use brackets and wires to apply pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into place. The treatment can take a few months to a few years, depending on the severity of the misalignment.


2. What are braces?

Braces are a type of dental appliance that is used to straighten teeth. They apply gentle, continuous pressure to the teeth over time, which gradually moves them into the desired position.

There are many different types of braces available today, made from different materials and with different levels of adjustability. Invisalign is a popular type of braces that are made from clear plastic and are nearly invisible when worn. Traditional metal braces are also still widely used and are generally more affordable than other types of braces.

Braces work by exerting gentle, continuous pressure on the teeth over time. This pressure slowly moves the teeth into the desired position.


3. How does tooth movement happen?

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a critical component of the tooth-supporting apparatus. It is a specialized connective tissue that attaches the tooth to the bone and allows for movement. The PDL is also involved in bone remodeling, which is the process by which bone is removed and replaced.

Tooth movement and bone remodeling are both essential for maintaining the health of the teeth and surrounding tissues. Without these processes, the teeth would eventually become loose and fall out. Therefore, the PDL plays a vital role in keeping the teeth in place and ensuring that they remain healthy.

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a key player in tooth movement and bone resorption and deposition. The PDL is a connective tissue that attaches the tooth to the bone and helps hold it in place. When the PDL is stretched or compressed, it signals the bone to either resorb (break down) or deposit (build up). This process is what allows teeth to move in response to orthodontic treatment.

In addition to promoting tooth movement, the PDL also helps to protect the tooth from excessive force. When a tooth is subjected to too much force, the PDL will absorb some of that force and help to prevent the tooth from being damaged.

Without the PDL, teeth would not be able to move in response to orthodontic treatment and would be more susceptible to damage.


4. The science of brackets and braces

Tooth movement is a complicated process that involves a lot of different factors. But one of the most important elements is brackets and wires. By exerting pressure on the teeth, brackets and wires can help to move the teeth into the desired position.

There are a few different ways that brackets and wires can exert pressure on the teeth. First, they can directly apply pressure to the teeth. This is most commonly done with brackets that are attached to the teeth with wires. The wires help to hold the brackets in place and apply pressure to the teeth.

Second, brackets and wires can also indirect pressure to the teeth. This is done by using the wires to help guide the teeth into the desired position. As the teeth move, they will come into contact with the brackets and wires, which will apply pressure to the teeth and help to move them into the


5. To wrap things up

There are a variety of different ways to straighten teeth, but braces are the most common. Braces work by putting pressure on the teeth, which gradually moves them into the correct position. The science of braces is complex, but the overall goal is to create a beautiful, straight smile.

In conclusion, braces work by applying pressure to the teeth in order to gradually move them into the desired position. This is a gradual process that can take several months to a year, depending on the severity of the misalignment. If you are considering braces or clear aligners, please book an appointment for a suitability assessment to find out if braces are the right treatment for you.



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