A brace is an aid from dentistry, which is used in the correction of malpositions of the teeth and / or jaw. Depending on the exact area of application, various models of the appliances, also called braces, exist. They are attached either by the dentist or by a specially trained orthodontist.
What is a brace?
A brace is a dental appliance used to correct misalignments of the teeth and/or jaw. Braces, also known as braces or abbreviated braces, are used in dentistry to correct misalignments of the teeth or jaw. The appliances used for this purpose are worn either fixed or removable in the mouth, which in the long term can correct the position of the teeth or even the jaw. Mostly braces are worn by young people who are still growing, as this can be used positively to improve the position of the teeth and jaw. On average, treatment with braces lasts two to four years, depending on individual development and the nature of the initial malocclusion. The cost of this is often fully covered by health insurance for minors.
Forms, types and styles
Braces are roughly divided into fixed and removable models. Removable braces are inserted into either the upper or lower jaw and can be removed, for example, when eating or exercising, which many sufferers find comfortable. However, care must be taken here to ensure that the braces are worn for a certain number of hours each day, as prescribed by the orthodontist; otherwise, the success of the therapy may be jeopardized. With fixed braces, so-called brackets are firmly attached to the individual teeth and connected with a wire. This allows the teeth to be pushed into the desired position piece by piece over a period of several months or years.
Structure, function and mode of action
The exact way each brace works depends on the particular model. Removable braces are used especially when the patient is still in the process of changing teeth. The so-called active plates direct the movement of growth in the right direction and can thus create space in the jaw for the permanent teeth. For those who already have permanent teeth, braces with active plates can be used, which cause less movement and thus positively change the position of the teeth. Removable braces are custom-made after a bite and jaw impression is taken. Fixed braces correct the position of teeth with the help of a wire connected by brackets placed on individual teeth. The tension of the wire can be gradually increased by the orthodontist upon request. In this way, the position of the teeth can be slowly changed over time. Fixed braces can be used at any age, as the slow changes in position are possible even in adults with fully grown jaws. If braces are worn, their fit must be checked regularly by the treating orthodontist along with individual progress to ensure optimal development.
Medical and health benefits
Braces are used in dentistry to correct various types of malocclusions of the teeth or jaw. Especially in adolescents, the mechanical appliances are used to correct existing malocclusions at an early stage. In this way, later surgical interventions that might have to take place to correct severe malocclusions can be avoided. Associated psychological stress or problems with speaking or chewing, which could go hand in hand with a malpositioned tooth or jaw, can also be avoided at an early stage. Whether treatment with braces is necessary can be determined by the treating dentist or orthodontist after a thorough examination. In the course of this, it can also be decided which brace model is best suited for the individual case. It should also be taken into account that although fixed braces may promise better success due to the fact that they are worn permanently, they can also sometimes be uncomfortable for the person concerned.For example, removable braces are easier to clean and can thus reduce the risk of caries caused by food debris. The orthodontist can assist in choosing the right braces.
