Definition of brackets
Brackets are special holding elements of orthodontic fixed appliances to which the wire is attached in order to move individual teeth or groups of teeth in a targeted manner. The brackets are made of different materials and they are attached adhesively, i.e. they are firmly connected to the tooth surfaces with a dental adhesive. Brackets can be attached to the outside of the teeth or almost invisibly to the back of the teeth. The functional principle of the brackets is based on the integrated locks into which the orthodontic wire can be inserted and fixed. For the duration of the orthodontic treatment, the brackets remain on the teeth, which can last from one to several years.
What do you need brackets for?
Brackets are used to set teeth in motion slowly and in a targeted manner, provided they are crooked and prevent a normal bite position. With the help of brackets, force can be applied to the teeth in a targeted manner to move them precisely and within a calculable time frame into a predetermined position. The brackets are used as fixed apparatus elements in orthodontics, if removable braces do not sufficiently achieve tooth displacement.
Furthermore, the brackets are used in adults, as it is more difficult to move the teeth after growth is complete and a removable appliance would not be successful in this case. With brackets, tooth gaps can be closed and also created if, for example, there is not enough space for an implant. In this case orthodontics is closely linked to surgery.
Fixed appliances can also be used in combination with implants in the palate to pull teeth out of the jaw and place them in positions that are in a malocclusion in the jaw. Brackets can be used to close gaps between teeth and can also be created if, for example, there is not enough space for an implant. In this case orthodontics is closely linked to surgery. Fixed appliances can also be used in combination with implants in the palate to pull teeth out of the jaw and place them in positions that are in a malocclusion in the jaw.
What are braces?
With dental brace rubbers one differentiates between fastening elements, the Alastics, and movement elements, the Elastics. Alastics serve to anchor the wire in the lock of the (Edgewise) bracket. So they sit directly around the bracket and serve as a so-called fastening ligature and are especially popular with children because of their colour variability.
However, since the rubber wears out due to the permanent force and tension exerted by the wire, it must be replaced with new ones at regular intervals. The time frame for this is about two to three months. As an alternative to the Alastics, there are wire ligatures which are much more durable and resistant than the brace rubbers due to the material.
However, as they are metal coloured, they are not very popular for aesthetic reasons. Elastics are rubbers that are used for the targeted movement of teeth. For this purpose, the brackets of the teeth to be moved are equipped with small hooks in which these rubbers can be hooked.
They are stretched from the upper to the lower jaw, for example. The orthodontist gives the patient instructions on how to attach the rubber bands. Usually, depending on the strength of the rubber bands, they have to be replaced several times a day and some of them have to be taken out for eating. Elastics, in contrast to the Alastics, are therefore strongly dependent on the patient’s cooperation.
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