All About Braces

by | Aug 2, 2016 | Dentist

Anybody, child or adult can benefit from braces. Crooked or misaligned teeth can be straightened using a number of specific treatments. Straightening teeth can be accomplished with little more than a retainer but in severe cases correction may require surgery.

How do braces work?

When braces in West Loop are installed by an orthodontist, they are positioned in such a way that they apply continuous pressure over a rather lengthy period of time. The teeth move in the direction the orthodontist wants them too, at the same time the jaw bone changes shape to accommodate the new position.

Braces consist of:

  • Brackets: These are the small squares that are attached directly to the front surface of the teeth. The stationary brackets hold the arch wire which moves the teeth. There are different types of brackets available, the most common is stainless steel while others are ceramic or plastic which are clear or tooth colored which makes them far less obvious.

  • Arch wire: This is attached to the brackets, the wire acts as a guide for the movement of the teeth. The arch wire is anchored to the last tooth.

  • Elastic bands: The bands are used to hold the arch wires to the brackets.

Depending on the condition the orthodontist may employ other appliances such as springs or face bow headgear.

The time that braces in West Loop have to remain in place varies depending on the condition. On average, the braces stay on for anywhere between one and three years, this depends on the distance and direction the teeth must move as well as the condition and health of the bone in which the teeth are rooted.

Are braces painful?

The orthodontist tightens the wires during the process, this places staring on the teeth. There may be some soreness or a feeling of pressure for a short period of time; this can be relieved with a simple pain reliever.

If you have crooked, protruding or overlapping teeth these conditions can be corrected when you are fitted with braces in West Loop. For a first consultation you are invited to see the specialists at Pure Dental Spa. Visit them online at

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