How Braces Move Teeth to Their Ideal Position

Braces are a common orthodontic treatment used to move teeth to their ideal position. The process begins with the placement of braces, which put pressure on the teeth and cause the periodontal membrane to stretch on one side and compress on the other, slightly loosening the tooth. This allows new bone to grow and support the tooth. Shape-memory wire arches, made of nickel-titanium, are then used to pull teeth forward.

These arches are elastic and return to their original U-shape, dragging the teeth along with them. Elastics are also placed from one or more of the upper straps to one or more of the lower straps, further applying pressure to the teeth. Tooth movement is a natural response to this pressure, as the ligament on the right compresses and new bone forms on the left to fill the space. Brackets and wire arches in braces provide teeth with the strength needed to create this pressure, resulting in positive dental movement. This process is also used to create and maintain a space for unerupted teeth. In conclusion, braces are an effective way of moving teeth to their ideal position.

The process begins with braces that put pressure on the teeth, allowing new bone to grow and support them. Shape-memory wire arches are then used to pull teeth forward, while elastics are placed from one or more of the upper straps to one or more of the lower straps. This pressure causes tooth movement, as ligaments compress and new bone forms on the left side of the tooth. Brackets and wire arches in braces provide strength for this process, resulting in positive dental movement.