Braces are dental appliances designed to gradually straighten teeth and improve bite alignment. This orthodontic treatment uses gentle, consistent forces to guide teeth into their correct positions, creating a healthier, more functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile over time.
The Mechanics of Tooth Movement
The ability of braces to move teeth relies on a complex biological process known as bone remodeling. Teeth are not rigidly fixed in the jawbone; instead, they are held in place by the periodontal ligament (PDL), a network of fibers that acts as a cushion between the tooth root and the surrounding bone. When braces apply pressure to a tooth, this force is transmitted through the PDL to the alveolar bone, which is the bone supporting the teeth.
On the side of the tooth where pressure is exerted, the periodontal ligament compresses, stimulating specialized cells called osteoclasts. These osteoclasts resorb bone tissue, creating space for the tooth to move. Simultaneously, on the opposite side where tension is created, osteoblasts form new bone, filling the space behind the moving tooth and stabilizing it. This continuous cycle of bone resorption and formation allows teeth to shift safely and predictably through the jawbone.
Intentional Vertical Tooth Movement
Braces can move teeth vertically, including pushing them “up” into the gum line (intrusion) or pulling them “down” out of the gum (extrusion). These intentional movements are a specific part of comprehensive orthodontic treatment plans. Intrusion addresses issues like a deep bite, where upper front teeth excessively overlap lower ones, or corrects teeth that have over-erupted or appear too long due to wear.
Extrusion involves gently pulling a tooth further out of its socket. This technique exposes partially erupted teeth or those fractured below the gum line, allowing for restorative procedures like crowns. Extrusion also helps level the gum line for cosmetic improvements or establish proper contact between opposing teeth. Both intrusion and extrusion are precise movements requiring careful planning to achieve desired functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Controlling Orthodontic Forces
Orthodontists employ various components and techniques to precisely control tooth movement, including vertical adjustments, ensuring desired outcomes and preventing unwanted effects. Brackets, small attachments bonded to each tooth, act as anchors for archwires. These archwires, made of specialized alloys, are threaded through the brackets and exert continuous, gentle pressure. The orthodontist periodically adjusts the archwires to maintain correct force and direct teeth in the planned direction.
Beyond traditional brackets and wires, orthodontists use accessory components like elastics (rubber bands) and springs for alignment and bite correction. For complex movements or when specific teeth need to be moved independently, temporary anchorage devices (TADs) may be used. These small, biocompatible titanium alloy mini-screws are temporarily placed into the jawbone, providing a fixed anchor point for highly controlled and efficient tooth movement, including targeted intrusion or extrusion.
Your Orthodontic Journey
Orthodontic treatment involves a partnership with a qualified professional to ensure safe and effective tooth movement. Regular appointments allow the orthodontist to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the braces or aligners. These adjustments are timed to allow for the natural bone remodeling process to occur.
Following the orthodontist’s instructions, especially regarding oral hygiene and appliance care, contributes to treatment success. The goal of orthodontic treatment extends beyond straightening teeth; it aims to create a healthy, stable bite that functions correctly and improves smile aesthetics. The controlled biological process of tooth movement progresses steadily over time.