Description

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments used to correct these issues. They are designed to gradually move teeth into the desired position, improving both the function and appearance of the teeth. Here's an overview of orthodontics, specifically focusing on braces: ### *What Are Braces?* - *Purpose:* Braces are used to correct a variety of dental issues, including crooked or crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, and gaps between teeth. They can also help in aligning the jaw. - *Components:* - *Brackets:* Small, square-shaped pieces bonded to the front of each tooth. They can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. - *Archwires:* Thin wires that run across the brackets, applying pressure to the teeth and guiding them into their correct positions. - *Bands:* Metal rings that encircle the back teeth to anchor the braces. - *Elastic Ties (O-Rings):* Small rubber bands that hold the archwire to the brackets. - *Ligatures:* Thin wires or elastics that can be used in place of elastic ties to hold the archwire to the brackets. - *Rubber Bands (Elastics):* These are used to apply extra pressure to help move the teeth or jaw into the desired position. - *Headgear:* Sometimes used in conjunction with braces, especially for correcting jaw alignment. Braces are a highly effective treatment for correcting a wide range of orthodontic problems, leading to improved oral health, functionality, and appearance. While the process requires time and commitment, the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile investment.