Why did my orthodontist put a thicker wire on?

Space Closure. Stage two is when your braces start to fix the gaps between your teeth. Because this requires more force, your wire will start to become thicker. This will keep your teeth upright and straight so they don't move backwards or into any other awkward position.

What does a thicker wire on braces do?

A thicker wire is stronger, which usually creates more movement in the teeth than a thinner wire. Arch wires are often switched out at your follow-up appointments to change the tension on the teeth.

Why do orthodontists change the wire?

As your teeth get straighter, your orthodontist will exchange your wires for stronger wires that are usually less elastic and stiffer. These stronger, stiffer wires allow the orthodontist to have more control over tooth movements.

What is the strongest wire for braces?

Beta-titanium archwires have a level of strength and elasticity somewhere between that of stainless steel and nickel-titanium. Some orthodontists choose this type of wire during the middle of orthodontic treatment when they start to need a stiffer wire.

Why did my orthodontist put a wire around my bracket?

Colligation: A thin metal wire that is criss-crossed around the brackets under the wire to help keep the space closed between the teeth.

Braces Wire Tightening - Why

What are the 5 stages of braces?

What is the last stage of braces?

The third and final phase of orthodontic treatment is the retention phase. This phase occurs once the teeth have moved into the desired position and the use of the dental appliance ceases.

How many stages of braces are there?

There are three general stages of braces and Invisalign treatment: the planning stage, the active stage, and the retention stage. All three phases are super important.

How often do orthodontists change wires?

In order to achieve this, wire change appointments should occur every 4 weeks. Teeth are moving very fast during Stage 1 so it's important to take advantage of the movement and mobility of teeth. Do not let patient appointment intervals extend beyond 6 to 8 weeks as is protocol with standard treatment.

Are power chains the last step in braces?

Usually, power chains become part of your treatment after the first phase of alignment. They can be used to help align your teeth or correct your bite, but are most often used to close gaps between the teeth. You might have a gap after a tooth has been extracted.

What are the different types of orthodontic wires?

How many times do braces get tightened?

While every patient is different, you should generally have your braces adjusted or tightened every 4-10 weeks. Keep in mind, though – your orthodontist will personalise your braces treatment to your individual needs, so there's no exact adjustment time that will suit everyone.

Why are braces tightened every 6 weeks?

We need to adjust your braces every 4-6 weeks in order to monitor the movement of your teeth. Otherwise, your teeth may shift in an unwanted direction, which may affect the overall health of your teeth. This may even extend treatment time.

When will I get thicker wire for braces?

Stage two is when your braces start to fix the gaps between your teeth. Because this requires more force, your wire will start to become thicker. This will keep your teeth upright and straight so they don't move backwards or into any other awkward position.

How do I know my braces are ready to come off?

Why do my teeth look worse after braces?

During the process of alignment, especially during the first 6 months, you may notice that things look worse before they look better. Here's why: Although your teeth may be crooked or spaced out when you start treatment, they have usually drifted into a position where they are stable and functional.

What color is best for braces?

Choose light blue, bronze, dark purple or subdued reds and pinks to complement lighter skin tones. Choose darker colors to make your teeth appear whiter. Watch out for lighter colors that could make your teeth look more yellow. Consider colors that complement or match your eyes.

Does tightening your braces hurt?

As mentioned previously, adjusting and getting your braces tightened can cause soreness and pain for a few days. The discomfort is not as bad and takes a few days to get used to your teeth' increased pressure. Each adjustment is a step toward straight teeth, but sometimes the movement of teeth can be painful.

Why do power chains hurt?

When this happens, the orthodontist replaces the individual ligatures in your brackets with the rings of the power chain. It's normal to experience pain or discomfort after your braces are adjusted, including after a power chain is added or replaced. This typically only lasts for a few days after the adjustment.

Why do top braces go on first?

In addition, it is normal to start treatment by having the braces installed on the top teeth first. The top teeth and jawbone take longer to align and move compared to the bottom teeth. After a period of time, based on what needs to be done to the bottom teeth and jawbone, the bottom braces are then installed.

What is a rectangular wire for braces?

Rectangular archwires are often used in later stages of orthodontic treatment to control and refine tooth movement. Archwires fit into the slots in brackets and actually move the teeth. An orthodontic specialist will offer the treatment option that is best for your individual needs.

How long are finishing wires for braces on?

These are all part of moving or guiding the teeth onto the wire and into the correct positions. Usually worn for between 2 and 6 months, patient-elastics guide the teeth in to the best possible biting position and help achieve the best possible result in the quickest time.

Do they file teeth after braces?

Enameloplasty to level your teeth after your braces are removed is often considered part of your orthodontic treatment. It's commonly offered at no additional charge.

How can I speed up my braces?

What do braces do the first month?

First Few Months in Braces

A low and constant pressure is applied along the archwire that is attached to the brackets which causes tension and compression on your teeth and periodontal ligaments.