Cleveland Orthodontics in Middlesbrough

Misalignment of the teeth is a growing concern worldwide. It has been estimated that over 56% of children and adults worldwide have some form of tooth misalignment. Unfortunately, misaligned teeth are a cosmetic concern for many people. More importantly, crooked or improperly aligned teeth create severe issues in eating and speech. That is why misaligned teeth should never be ignored and must be straightened as soon as possible. 

Luckily, modern dentistry offers a variety of options for straightening misaligned teeth. Among them, traditional metal braces are a time-tested and reliable option. Even with the advent of other orthodontic treatment options, metal braces are still being used by dentists worldwide to fix crooked teeth. This blog is all about metallic braces and will provide you with all the information you need to know about them before starting your orthodontic treatment. So, read on!

What Are Dental Braces?

Dental brackets are appliances bonded to the teeth and are used to fix misalignment problems. A dental bracket is bonded to each tooth, and a metallic wire passes through a slot within them, connecting them. The tension within the orthodontic wire determines how fast the teeth move and their direction/ angulation. Metal-based brackets are commonly used orthodontic treatment options for fixing dental misalignment.  

What Are The Different Materials Used To Make Braces?

A few years ago, the only treatment option available for fixing tooth crowding or over-spacing was metal braces. However, today a multitude of options are available. Broadly speaking, there are two orthodontic appliances: fixed and removable. Fixed orthodontic treatment options include metal, ceramic, and lingual braces. On the other hand, removable appliances consist of functional appliances and removable clear aligners. 

Which Type Of Braces Are More Effective?

All types of dental braces are effective in treating crooked teeth. However, the main factor governing the efficacy of dental brackets is the type of tooth misalignment. For example, fixed braces, such as metal braces, are an excellent option for fixing complex or complicated issues where the dental bite needs to be adjusted. On the other hand, removable clear aligners are suitable for treating mild to moderate orthodontic issues such as mild overcrowding or teeth gaps. Your orthodontist will recommend the best treatment option after a detailed clinical and radiographic examination. 

Which Is Better, Braces Or Aligners?

Both dental braces and clear aligners are suitable for fixing misaligned teeth. However, it can be challenging to decide which of these is a better option can be challenging. This is because both treatment options have their own merits and demerits. For example, fixed braces are suitable for non-compliant patients as they are non-removable. Furthermore, they can treat very complicated or complex orthodontic issues. On the other hand, clear aligners are considerably more comfortable than braces and allow one to eat all their favourite foods and maintain good oral hygiene since they are removable. So, it is hard to tell which option is better or superior. 

How Far Can A Tooth Be Moved With Braces?

The short answer: as far as it is needed. Dental braces and clear aligners move the teeth gradually toward optimal alignment. This process involves bone removal at the moving tooth front while new bone formation occurs behind the tooth. This constant bone remodelling helps in moving the teeth. As long as the brackets exert pressure on the teeth, tooth movement continues. So, the teeth can be moved as far as needed to realign them optimally. 

How Do I Take Care Of Metal Braces?

To ensure an optimal treatment outcome with dental braces, one must take good care of them. An essential requirement for looking after one’s braces is optimal oral hygiene maintenance and to carry out the following tasks:

  • Brushing and flossing – dentists recommend using an inter-dental brush to ensure that the tight spaces between the teeth
  • Avoid fizzy drinks
  • Avoid hard and sticky foods – as they can also cause bracket dislodgment. 

How Do Braces Pull Teeth Inward?

The tension in the orthodontic wires attached to the dental brackets is responsible for moving them. Your dentist will precisely adjust the location where the wires exert the pressure to bring about a specific type of tooth movement. For example, when the orthodontic wire exerts pressure on the front teeth, it results in their inward movement. 

Can You Get Braces On The Back Or Behind Your Teeth?

Yes, it is also possible to get dental braces on the backside of the teeth. These braces are called lingual braces (lingual = the surface towards the tongue. Lingual braces are bonded to the lingual surface of teeth, and they work similarly to conventional braces. The only difference is that they are virtually inconspicuous since they are bonded to the inner side of the teeth. 

What Happens If I Remove My Braces After Only 2 Months?

Dental braces require at least 6-8 months to completely treat mild orthodontic issues. So, if one wears their braces for only 2 months, it will only partially treat the problem. Furthermore, the teeth will quickly return to their previous positions after removing the braces. Hence, one should continue wearing braces until they are completely aligned. 

At Cleveland Clinic, we understand that finding a good orthodontist is a difficult task. But we have good news for the residents of Middlesbrough. If you are looking for a good orthodontist in the area, we are at your service. We provide all orthodontic and general dental services under one roof. So, for help with dental braces in Middlesbrough, get in touch with us here. We look forward to serving you.  

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