How Do Dental Braces Work?

Dental Braces. How do they work? This question intrigues every single person attempting or considering this option of correcting ones image through dentistry. Our teeth are one of the strongest objects in the world but when force is applied over an extended period of time they are easily moved. Orthodontic braces work by applying a certain amount of force, which effectively applies the desired amount of force needed to align or recap the out of place teeth. This desired application or force is exerted via the use of arch wires.

These arch wire applications shift the teeth into the pre determined and defined particular direction. This results in a ‘stress’ that is created within the periodontal ligament within the tooth. The resultant modification or change within the periodontal blood supply in turn causes a natural biological response to the action. This leads to effective remodeling of the bone structure within the mouth. The bone structure is created by the osteoblast cells, while it is resorbed by the osteoclast cells.

There are two different kinds of bone resorption processes possible when considering how orthodontic braces work. The direct resorption begins from within the cell lining of the alveolar. The indirect resorption is taken care of when the osteoclasts commence the desired activity in the adjacent bone marrow. The indirect resorption process basically unfolds when the periodontal ligament becomes acellular. This process is also referred to as necrosis or hyalinization and it is only initiated in the presence of the desired amount of stress on the enamel within the suggested duration of compression. The quantity of bone resorbed is usually more than that of the newly formed bone. This is also referred to by dentists as “negative balance.”

When inquiring ‘How do braces work?’ it is important to understand that the desired bone resorption essentially takes place within the compressed periodontal ligament. It is also important to understand the phenomenon called bone deposition. This phenomenon is associated with tooth movement and occurs within the periodontal ligament. This important development is essential for the teeth to stay firm. If this is not used the resultant voids hamper the direction of tooth movement.

A tooth is observed to shift approximately a millimeter each month, which is carefully monitored by the orthodontists. However, the individual variability in this shift is relatively high. The tools and numerous orthodontic mechanics and techniques vary in efficiency. This is the prime reason for the wide range of response to orthodontic treatment observed all over the world. It is imperative to understand the working of the dental treatment prior to setting any preconceived goals for yourself.