Despite the generally accepted opinion, the molars are not fixedly fused to the jaw. In fact, their roots are firmly drawn to the tooth socket by thin fibers of connective (bone) tissue. These threads are located between the roots of the teeth and the wall of the bone. Due to this, the teeth move independently during eruption.
They are also amenable to forces that are specifically applied to rearrange their location. For example, if a slight but prolonged pressure is directed to the wall of the tooth socket, it will eventually resolve in this place. This creates a gap for shifting the tooth. At the same time, on the other side (in the place where the connective tissue fibers expand), a new bone is formed that supports the tooth. As a result, he cannot return.
It is worth noting that the effect remains forever. Thus, a deformed dentition can always be aligned with the help of specialists.
What can be done?
There are 2 types of bite correction devices: mechanical and functional. Mechanical devices align the teeth with the help of pressure, which is created by springs and arcs. In turn, functional devices do not affect the teeth, but the muscles of the maxillofacial region and tongue.
Functional devices for correcting teeth (trainers) are suitable if the child is 7-10 years old. In this case, they can inhibit the growth of the jaw, change the outline of the bones or the width of the palate.
There are 2 types of mechanical means : removable and non-removable.
Device and features of removable systems
They are represented by hypoallergenic removable plates for the upper and lower jaw. The plates are created individually for each patient, and they are held in place with wire hooks. You can take it off to eat or brush your teeth, but then you have to put it back on.
To straighten crooked teeth, wire shackles, springs and loops are built into the removable system. If, in addition to alignment of the dentition, you need to expand the jaw, then an expansion screw will be inserted between the halves of the plates. Gradually, the arches will be changed to other, more regular shapes, which will eventually lead to alignment of the teeth line.
Such systems are very easy to remove, wash and clean. But note that they are only effective until the age of 12, while the jaws are being formed. In addition, your child can easily remove it. However, you need to make sure that he puts the system back on. But what to do if you need to align the dentition for older people?
The device and features of fixed systems
The most famous representative of non-removable systems are braces. By the name it becomes clear that they are in the mouth throughout the course of treatment. Structural nodes are attached to the teeth and are not removed even when the doctor needs to adjust the system using different power elements.
If we translate the word bracket from English, then the closest thing to it in meaning will be “bracket”. However, in reality, the device has a rather complex design, which can be compared to fine jewelry work.
Often they are made of stainless steel. However, some can be made from gold, precious stones, pure titanium, special fiberglass, ceramic, composite, plastic, etc.
The set of braces includes 20 elements, which are fixed with special glue on the upper and lower jaws (10 elements on each of them). The orthodontist sticks the components of the system in a certain sequence, after which he connects them with an arc. This archwire is inserted into the horizontal slot of the bracket and is attached behind an elastic or wire ligature. The mount itself is fixed in metal rings on the supports. Most often, this support is worn on the "sixes".
The wire connecting the elements has a memory. With its help, you can set the teeth in the direction of gradual movement, which as a result will lead to the correct position of the teeth in the mouth. Depending on the section and profile of the wire arc, the degree of tension required to align the teeth is set.
A distinctive feature of this wire is superelasticity. In other words, you can twist it, bend it, or even tie it into a knot in any way - in any case, it will return to its original position. Such an “initial shape” is just set in the memory of the wire arc.
Please note that the wire regains its shape when it reaches a certain temperature. For example, you twisted and broke the arc, but as soon as the temperature reaches 36.60C, it “remembers” its original position and returns to it. Please note that the wire will not lose the specified tension during recovery.
With the help of braces, the doctor can adjust the direction and degree of inclination or rotation of each tooth. The so-called "course" is embedded in the geometry of the groove, through which the external force is transmitted. Due to the fact that each element of the system has its own groove, even complex curvature of the teeth can be aligned.
This groove should match the profile of the archwire, and the inclination with respect to the vertical or horizontal axis depends on each tooth. Since there are many varieties of grooves and braces, you can choose the right option for each individual case.
Due to the fact that the wire arch every day for months exerts a slight continuous pressure on the crooked tooth, it does not have the opportunity to restore the connective tissue. As a result, this treatment method works with 100% efficiency.
Braces: pros and cons
The undoubted advantage of using fixed systems is a more progressive treatment. Moreover, only braces are able to move the tooth without tilting, straighten its root, change its length or rotate along the axis. Also, they can be used to align the dentition in adult patients.
The only drawback of a fixed system is the high price, which is explained by the high requirements for materials used in orthodontics. Also note that you should take much better care of your teeth after getting braces. In particular, you need to clean them of food residues, it is forbidden to use chewing gum, etc.
Approximately braces are worn for 1.5-2 years. Despite this, if your financial situation allows, it is recommended to undergo this course of treatment. After all, with its help you will not only straighten your teeth and prevent many diseases, but also gain self-confidence.
