Have you ever been curious about how braces make your teeth straight? At Icon Orthodontics, Dr. Sarpotdar and Dr. Sun fit people like you with braces every day! Our Glendale and Surprise offices can tell you everything you need to know about braces and how they work.
The Basics of Braces
Let’s start by learning about the basics of braces. Braces are not just pieces of metal or ceramic attached to your teeth. They are sophisticated tools designed to help your teeth relocate to a position with more curb appeal (or maybe smile appeal).
Braces consist of several key components: brackets, archwires, and bands. Our team affixed brackets directly to each of your teeth. Your brackets are made of metal or ceramic. They act as anchors for your braces. Next, we have the archwires. Dr. Sun or Dr. Sarpotdat will thread your archwire through the brackets. When complete, the archwire will exert tension on the brackets. The brackets, in turn, exert pressure on your teeth. As your treatment continues, your teeth will slowly assume new spots in your gum line are the leading players in applying the necessary pressure to move your teeth.
Additionally, bands or spacers create more space between your teeth, especially if your teeth are crowded. This setup allows for a more efficient and effective movement of your teeth. At our Surprise and Glendale locations, we customize every aspect of your braces, ensuring a better fit for your unique smile journey.
How Braces Move Teeth
Understanding how braces move teeth is vital to appreciating the art and science behind orthodontics at Icon Orthodontics. It’s a fascinating process that Dr. Sarpotdar and Dr. Sun expertly manage at our Glendale and Surprise locations.
Braces work by steadily pressuring the structure around your teeth. But this pressure is not just on your teeth. It extends to your jawbone, too. Underneath your gums, there’s a membrane that roots your teeth into your lower mandible. When your braces apply pressure, this membrane responds by slowly moving the teeth into new positions. It’s like a carefully choreographed dance where each tooth is guided to its ideal spot.
The process happens over time. As your teeth move, the bone also changes shape, thanks to the orthodontic force applied by the braces. This is why regular adjustments with Dr. Sarpotdar and Dr. Sun are a must. Each adjustment verifies that the pressure is behaving as it should and that your smile realignment is progressing.
Parts of Braces and Their Functions
At Icon Orthodontics, where Dr. Sarpotdar and Dr. Sun craft beautiful smiles, every part of your braces plays a vital role. Let’s break down these components:
Brackets
Attached to each tooth, these small squares act as anchors for the braces. Made of metal or ceramic, they hold the archwires that move the teeth.
Archwires
Passing through the brackets, these wires are the leading force in moving teeth. They guide the direction and amount of movement needed.
Bands and Spacers
Bands are ring-like structures placed around your teeth, mainly used as additional anchors. Spacers are tiny rings that create space between your teeth, making room for other parts of the braces.
Elastic Bands (O-Rings)
These small elastic bands attach the archwires to the brackets. They play a crucial role in applying the right amount of pressure to move teeth.
Types of Braces
At Icon Orthodontics, under Dr. Sarpotdar’s and Dr. Sun’s expert care, we stock several different braces options to suit every need and lifestyle. Our offices in Glendale and Surprise are equipped with the latest in orthodontic technology, including:
Damon Metal Braces
The Damon Metal braces are a modern twist on traditional metal braces. They use a self-ligating system, meaning they require no elastic ties. This design affords you more freedom of movement. The result? Faster treatment times and fewer visits to our office.
LightForce Custom CLEAR Braces
Revolutionizing orthodontic treatment, LightForce braces are 3D printed to fit your teeth perfectly. This customization leads to a more comfortable treatment process tailored specifically for you.
Invisalign/Spark Clear Aligners
Invisalign clear aligners provide an excellent choice for those seeking an even more inconspicuous option. These removable trays are custom-made to fit your teeth, allowing for a braceless appearance while effectively straightening your smile.
What Issues Do Braces Fix?
Our Icon Orthodontics team specializes in remodeling smiles for aesthetics and oral health. Braces are potent tools in correcting a variety of dental issues:
Crowded Teeth
When your teeth overlap or are too close together, braces can space them out evenly. This enhances your smile and makes it easier for you to keep your teeth clean. A significant side effect of cleaner teeth is a reduced risk of getting cavities and developing gum disease.
Gaps Between Teeth
Braces effectively close gaps, giving you a more uniform and appealing smile while preventing food particles from getting trapped, which can lead to dental problems.
Misaligned Jaw
Issues like overbites, underbites, and crossbites can lead to difficulties in eating and speech. Braces help in aligning the jaw properly, improving both function and appearance.
Improper Bite
An incorrect bite can cause uneven wear on teeth and jaw discomfort. Braces work to align your bite, distribute pressure evenly, and reduce the risk of future dental issues.
Iconic Braces Treatments
Icon Orthodontics takes care of all your braces needs in Glendale and Surprise. Dr. Sarpotdar and Dr. Sun will see that your braces leave you with a spectacular, and dare we say, “iconic” look. Go here to schedule your free consultation.