There has been a growing dedication to patient education in the annals of the medical industry. The idea that the patient should merely trust to doctor to know what’s best for their health has passed. Today’s patients are active in their healthcare, wanting to understand the treatments and how they may help. Medical professionals have discovered that an involved patient aids the treatment and results in greater satisfaction. Dentistry is among those industries that have seen the benefit of patients being active in their care.
Traditional Braces And How They Improve Oral Health
Traditional braces most often come to mind when thinking of orthodontic appliances. They are three components that work together to produce the desired results. While they have been a central part of orthodontic care for generations, patients often don’t understand how they work. The principles that drive traditional braces are relatively simple. Their components apply pressure to the teeth precisely, adjusting them into a final position and restoring proper occlusion or bite. The jawbone softens and hardens throughout the process, allowing the teeth to move and securing them in place.
There are three physical parts involved in this process, including:
- Brackets – These metal components are mounted directly to the teeth using a powerful adhesive. Originally they were only available in silvery metal. Modern variations are available in ceramic-colored brackets that are difficult for the casual observer to see. However, they are also available in various colors for those who want to flaunt their braces.
- Archwires – These wires are made of a heat-responsive material. They are secured to the brackets in a way that will apply pressure in the desired areas. How they respond to the heat within the mouth is a central part of how they perform the adjustments. These wires used to be made out of silvery metal but are now available in ceramic and transparent varieties.
- O-Rings – These bands are used to attach the archwires to the brackets. They secure them in place while allowing them to be adjusted and accomplish their given task. They are available in ceramic colors, black, and a rainbow of other colors for those looking to make a statement.
These components are placed and adjusted using the skill of the dentist. In addition to the jawbone responding to treatment, so does the periodontal membrane. This membrane covers the jawbone beneath the gums and aids in securing the teeth in place. It too will adjust to the pressure applied before strengthening to hold them in place.
Learn More From Your Dentist
Your dentist will always be willing to discuss your oral health details with you. They’ll detail the procedure and how the body responds to the treatment. They’ll let you know what to expect in the process. It’s important to take an active role in your healthcare, so don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you may have.
