Metal braces are orthodontic devices designed to align teeth and correct bite issues. They consist of small metal brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by a thin wire. Many individuals considering this treatment wonder about the safety of the materials used. Understanding the components and their interaction with the body can clarify these concerns.
Components of Metal Braces
The primary material for the brackets in metal braces is high-grade stainless steel. This alloy offers durability, strength, and resistance to degradation within the oral environment. Stainless steel commonly used in orthodontics contains elements like iron, chromium, and nickel. Chromium contributes to the formation of a protective layer that prevents rust and bacterial adhesion.
Archwires, which exert the force to move teeth, are often made from nickel-titanium (NiTi) alloys. These alloys are valued for their unique properties, including shape memory and superelasticity, allowing them to provide consistent, gentle pressure as teeth shift. Another material used for archwires is beta-titanium, a titanium-molybdenum alloy chosen for its flexibility and ability to deliver precise forces. The careful selection of these materials stems from their specific mechanical properties, resistance to corrosion, and general compatibility with the body.
Potential for Material Release
The metallic components of braces can release minute quantities of ions into the oral environment. The mouth presents a challenging setting, with temperature variations, saliva, and mechanical forces from chewing. These conditions can contribute to material degradation.
One mechanism for release is corrosion, an electrochemical process where metals react with their surroundings. Galvanic corrosion can occur when different metals are in close contact within conductive saliva, leading one metal to degrade more readily. Additionally, constant friction and wear from chewing or tooth movement can compromise protective oxide layers on brace surfaces. This can result in the leaching of metal ions, though typically in very small amounts.
Body’s Interaction with Brace Materials
The human body generally interacts well with the materials used in orthodontic braces. These materials are chosen for their biocompatibility, meaning they are compatible with living tissues and cause minimal adverse reactions. Any minute amounts of ions released from the braces are typically processed and eliminated by the body’s natural defense mechanisms.
The safety of orthodontic materials is supported by extensive testing and regulatory oversight. Dental materials undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure they meet established safety standards. Regulatory bodies approve these materials for use, confirming their suitability for long-term placement in the oral cavity. For the vast majority of individuals, metal braces are considered a safe and effective treatment option.
Addressing Sensitivities and Side Effects
While metal braces are well-tolerated, some individuals may experience sensitivities or localized reactions, though these are uncommon. A primary concern is a nickel allergy, as both stainless steel and nickel-titanium alloys contain nickel. Individuals who have previously reacted to nickel in jewelry may be more susceptible.
Signs of a potential nickel allergy include redness, swelling, or a burning sensation inside the mouth, as well as rashes or itching around the lips or face. If these symptoms appear, inform the orthodontist. For those with known metal sensitivities, several alternatives are available:
- Ceramic braces, made from tooth-colored materials, contain no metal.
- Titanium braces or brackets offer a hypoallergenic option, particularly for nickel-sensitive patients.
- Gold-plated braces can provide a protective barrier for mild sensitivities.
- Clear aligners offer a completely metal-free treatment approach.
- For latex sensitivity, orthodontists can provide latex-free elastic components.