How Can Thin Pieces Of Plastic In Invisible Braces Do The Same Job As Metal Braces?

For a very long time after traditional braces were invented, invisible braces didn't exist. It took a long time for dentists to develop both the technology and the material necessary to be able to create invisible braces that work effectively. But if you're not convinced that they can do the same job for you as traditional braces, then here's some information that might seal the deal.

How They Work

Invisible braces work differently than traditional braces. Traditional braces use a sort of pulley system where a wire that stretches across the entire set of upper or lower teeth is pinned down on metal brackets that are attached to individual teeth. Then these wires are tightened in such a way that they gradually start pulling the teeth in the direction that the orthodontist wants them to go in.

With invisible braces, there are no wires or brackets, so how do they work? The simple answer is, with advancements in technology. Dentists use computer imaging to create a series of invisible braces that are all slightly different from one another. The very first pair will fit your teeth as they are almost perfectly, as it will have been based on molds and x-rays taken of your own teeth. However, there will be a slight disparity - each opening for each tooth will be slightly different than where your teeth naturally lie. When you put these invisible braces on, each of the slots designated for a tooth will gradually start pushing a tooth into the direction it needs to go.

A Similar Mechanism

If you're still not clear on how invisible braces actually make the teeth move, then another type of orthodontist device might clear it up. If you've ever had braces in the past, chances are you've heard of or experienced something called a spacer. Spacers can be as small as a rubber band and look similar, too. Orthodontists slide them between teeth that are too close together to gradually start pushing them apart from one another. This is the same way that invisible braces work. By having each individual tooth slot be slightly off-center so that it pushes or pulls each individual tooth into a new position.

It's important to note here that depending on the severity of your bite problems, you could have potentially a dozen or more invisible braces sets made for you. It's a gradual process but one that can be easily completed without the need for unsightly braces.

Learn more about invisible braces and whether they're the right choice for you by visiting a local dentist.