Do you have crooked or uneven teeth? If so, your orthodontist may recommend braces to help straighten them and enhance your dental health. It’s important to note that your orthodontist will take the time to carefully plan how to position your teeth correctly and develop a tailored treatment for your needs. This raises an essential question: “How do braces actually move your teeth?” Read on to find the answer.
How do your teeth move?
To understand how orthodontic braces work, it’s important to know how your teeth move. Each tooth is connected to the bone by small ligaments that allow for slight movement. These ligaments act as shock absorbers, sending signals to your brain if you accidentally bite down hard. When braces apply pressure to a tooth, your body assists in the repositioning process. This enables your teeth to shift into their correct positions over time.
How do braces work?
Braces function by applying pressure to your teeth to shift them into the desired position. Brackets are attached to the teeth and connected by wires. Initially, these wires are light, but they gradually become heavier, exerting consistent pressure that encourages the teeth to move. The key to effective movement is maintaining continuous pressure, which helps the teeth shift quickly to their correct places in the mouth. It’s essential to follow your orthodontist’s instructions, as not doing so can delay your treatment progress.
What you can expect by wearing braces:
Once you become accustomed to wearing braces, you’ll realise the new responsibilities that come with them. While you may experience some discomfort initially, you will adapt over time. This discomfort arises from the pressure the braces exert on your teeth to help them shift into their new positions. You can alleviate some of this discomfort by taking over-the-counter pain relievers and eating soft foods. Following specific guidelines will also help you maximise the benefits of your treatment.
Foods you should not eat at the time of wearing braces include:
- Chewy foods
- Hard boiled sweets
- Popcorn and nuts
- Ice
- Tough meats
Apart from paying attention to your eating habits, don’t forget to check your oral hygiene habits. This will include brushing twice in a day and flossing daily so that bacteria and plaque may not build up on your teeth.
Braces are an effective way to restore your beautiful smile with minimal effort. Understanding how orthodontic braces work to move your teeth can boost your confidence and help you achieve the perfect set of teeth you’ve always wanted. Don’t skip your appointments with the friendly experts at Dulwich Dental Office and your hard work will pay you off with an attractive smile.
Need dental advice or treatment?
Looking for a dentist in Dulwich? Require more information or treatments relating to Dental Braces. Contact us today, we provide both private and NHS dental treatments. We have patients from across London including: Dulwich, Beckenham, Brixton, Croydon, Crystal Palace, Camberwell, Herne Hill, Honor Oak, Mitcham, Oxted, Orpington, Peckham, Sutton, Streatham and Upper Sydenham. Need any kind of dental treatment? Contact Dulwich Dental Office today.
