We are often asked in Clonmel Orthodontics how braces are put on the teeth. The first thing to know is that the procedure is fairly simple and pain free , it does not involve any injections. The orthodontic brackets are essentially glued to the teeth. To place the brackets on the upper and lower teeth takes between 40 -60 minutes. The same basic procedure is followed for all types of braces, including metal braces, clear braces, plastic braces, invisible clear braces and cosmetic braces and lingual braces, though there are some variations in the steps.
The procedure is as follows.
First thing is the teeth are polished with a paste like tooth-paste.
The teeth are polished before bonding the brackets
If the brackets are to stick to the teeth the teeth must be bone dry, otherwise the adhesive doesn’t work properly. To keep the inside of the lips and cheeks and the tongue away from the teeth a (Nola) retractor is fitted. This consists of two separate parts a tongue retractor and a cheek retractor. The ( Nola) cheek retractor also has tubes which suck the saliva out of the mouth to help to keep the teeth dry.
Tongue and cheek retractors and saliva evacuation tubes in place. It is important that the teeth are kept dry when putting on the brackets (braces).
To help to stick the brackets to the teeth a primer is applied to the teeth. This is simply painted on like nail varnish.
A primer is applied to the tooth to help the adhesive to stick.
Adhesive is then applied to the back or fitting surface of the bracket. The bracket is then placed on a certain position on the tooth. The exact position of the bracket is important if it is going to work most effectively.
The bracket is placed on the tooth and the excess adhesive (in blue) is carefully removed.
When the bracket has been precisely positioned and the excess adhesive removed, the adhesive is set by shining a blue light on the brackets.
A blue light is used to set the adhesive.
When all the brackets have been positioned on the teeth , the wire which provides the force to gently move the teeth into place is positioned in the brackets. This wire is normally secured into place on the brackets either by using elastomeric ties or very small stainless steel ties. The elastomeric ties can be a clear colour , (normally chosen for clear braces) or a silver colour to match silver braces , or a bright colour if the patient wants coloured braces.
Once the brackets have been placed brushing is very important but we deliberately try not to make it too complicated as this can often prove to be counter productive. We will explain a simple but effective technique of brushing, and it is important that where possible the teeth are brushed after every meal and last thing at night. We will explain the use of orthodontic wax.
If necessary “over the counter” analgesics can be taken for any discomfort.
It takes a few days to adapt to the braces. After a short period of time you will start to see that your teeth are straightening up, this will provide you with great encouragement and reassure you that the journey to your new smile is underway!
We provide orthodontic treatment in a caring atmosphere and will be available to provide support and encouragement to you throughout your treatment.
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This blog was written by Dr John Buckley Clonmel’s most qualified and most experienced orthodontist. We use cutting edge technology in Clonmel Orthodontics to provide excellent orthodontic treatment at affordable prices. Our surgeries are airy spacious and private , like you might expect if you visited a general medical practitioner.
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