Braces are the most common form of orthodontic treatment. Patients typically have their braces on for eighteen to twenty four months, on average.
Braces are made up of the following:
- Bands: The ring of metal that is glued onto the tooth, typically on molars.
- Bonded Brackets: The attachment bonded directly to the tooth.
- Elastics (or O-rings): These hold the wire onto the bracket. This is the fun part! There are many colors to choose from. Kids have a blast picking out new colors at each of their adjustment appointments.
- Archwires: Large removable wirer that fits around the arch into the bracket slots.
- Hooks: Used to attach elastics.
Getting braces on takes two appointments. During the first appointment, we take records. Records include photographs, x-rays and impressions. We also place spacers between the back molars during the first appointment. The spacers slightly move the back molars to make room for the bands.
We will provide you with orthodontic wax. This is for areas that may cause discomfort to your soft tissues, i.e. cheeks, lips or tongue while your mouth adjusts to having braces. Simply roll the wax between your fingers to form a ball and place it over any areas that may be rough on your braces. If you need more wax, let us know and we will give you more at no charge. Most drugstores carry orthodontic wax in their dental section, if we are not available.
