While considering braces for your child or yourself, you may have wondered how exactly do orthodontic appliances cause teeth to permanently move into the optimal position. In this article, Dr. Kevin Horner of Horner Barrow Orthodontics in Sioux Falls, SD, answers that question without getting too technical.
The process of permanently moving teeth relies on the constant pressure of the tooth surface against the membrane that surrounds the tooth. Not a lot of force is needed to accomplish this; just enough to feel some minor pressure.
Orthodontic appliances cause permanent tooth movement through the process of bone remodeling.
Two types of cells are responsible for bone remodeling. Those cells are called osteoblasts and osteoclasts. The osteoclasts break down the bone, and the osteoblasts build up the bone. When the positioning appliance pulls the tooth, it exerts pressure against the wall of the periodontal ligament (PDL). The PDL encases part of the tooth in the jawbone and holds it in place, and in turn, the jawbone.
After just a few days of pressure from the orthodontic appliance, the osteoclasts start breaking down bone to create space for the tooth to move into it’s new position. At the same time, the gap created on the other side of the tooth needs new cells to fill up that space and stabilize the new tooth position. That’s what the osteoblasts do. However, this process takes many months to complete. For this reason, it’s vitally important to wear your retainers after your braces are removed, as directed by your orthodontist!
That brings us to the function of the elastic bands used along with the orthodontic appliance. The big issue with elastics is that they will only work with complete patient cooperation, meaning an orthodontic patient needs to remember to keep changing them; unlike the wires, which are permanently in place doing their job.
While the pressure is being applied by the elastics, the permanent positioning process is occurring. It may be a bit uncomfortable, and while you might be tempted to not use the elastics, this will set your overall treatment plan back and prolong the discomfort.
Cooperation and persistence is the key to a great end result; your healthy, beautiful, straight smile! Persevere through those uncomfortable movement issues. In time you will most likely forget the elastics are there, and they will just continuously do their job.
It is very important to remember to change the elastics at least 3 or 4 times a day as they lose their elasticity over time and become less efficient; again, prolonging the overall treatment time.
Remember to change your elastics regularly, and you will soon be elastic- (and braces!) free!
Dr. Kevin Horner, Dr. Keri Barrow and the entire Horner Barrow Orthodontics team are committed to delivering excellent quality orthodontic treatment to each and every patient. To provide a friendly, caring, and pleasant atmosphere that will ensure our patients feel relaxed and confident about placing their orthodontic care in our hands.