How Do Braces Straighten Teeth?

We all know that braces make teeth straighter. But have you ever wondered how braces realign teeth? At Eastern Virginia Orthodontics, with the expert guidance of Dr. Peluso and Dr. Savage, we use braces daily. Our practice, serving Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and surrounding communities, specializes in turning your orthodontic dreams into dazzling realities. Let’s learn more about the science behind braces to discover how braces could best help you.

Understanding Braces

Braces are a cornerstone of modern orthodontic care. Our team uses braces to correct misaligned teeth and jaws, which improves your smile’s functionality and aesthetics. The concept of braces has been around for centuries, and they have evolved significantly over time. Today, brackets are attached to each of your teeth, connected by an archwire. Tension between the archwire and bracket gently guides your teeth into new positions. Dr. Peluso and Dr. Savage use these tools to beautify your smile and bolster your oral health. Our practice embraces the latest advancements in braces technology. You will receive the best care tailored to your unique dental landscape in our office.

The Science Behind Braces

The science of braces lies in the simplicity of the tension they exert. Each component of your braces has an important role to play. The brackets, affixed to each tooth, work like anchors, while the archwire, running through the brackets, applies the necessary force. The pressure will help your teeth scoot into new spots as your treatment goes on.  

At Eastern Virginia Orthodontics, our team harnesses this science precisely. We carefully calibrate the pressure exerted by your braces. The archwires need to be tight enough to produce a meaningful change. But they shouldn’t be so tight that they cause discomfort or pain. As your teeth move, the bone in the jaw changes shape through bone remodeling. This process involves breaking bone tissue around the moving tooth, allowing it to move, and then rebuilding it to stabilize it in its new position.

The duration of this process varies for each of our patients. Typically, treatment timelines range from several months to a few years, depending on the complexity of the alignment you need. Our Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake teams provide continuous support and adjustments throughout this journey. Your transition to a stunning smile will be as smooth and efficient as we can make it.

 

How Do Braces Straighten Teeth?

Types of Braces At Eastern Virginia Orthodontics

At Eastern Virginia Orthodontics, we understand that each smile is unique, and so are the paths to perfecting it. That’s why Dr. Peluso and Dr. Savage offer an assortment of braces to suit our patients’ different needs and lifestyles.

Traditional Metal Braces

The classic choice, metal braces, are highly effective for many orthodontic issues. At your regular appointments, our team will periodically tighten to align your teeth. Ideal for their durability and efficiency, metal braces remain a popular choice for patients of every age.

Clear/Ceramic Braces

Clear braces are a fantastic choice for a more reserved option. Made of translucent ceramic material, they blend with the natural color of your teeth. While they function similarly to metal braces, they offer an aesthetic advantage, making them particularly appealing to adults and older teens.

Invisalign

Invisalign might be suitable if you’re looking for an even more inconspicuous option. These clear, removable aligners are fashioned to fit cozily over your teeth, gently moving them into place. Perfect for those who prefer a less noticeable treatment, Invisalign allows for greater flexibility and comfort.

Your Treatment Process

Initiating your orthodontic treatment at Eastern Virginia Orthodontics begins with a comprehensive consultation. Dr. Peluso, Dr. Savage, and our team in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake take the time to understand your specific needs and goals. We thoroughly examine your teeth and jaw to determine the most effective treatment plan.

Once a strategy is set, your journey to a dazzling smile begins. If you choose braces, applying them is straightforward and carefully managed. Regular adjustments are vital to your treatment, where the braces are tightened to continue the alignment process. Your appointments are also an opportunity to track progress and make necessary modifications.

Throughout your treatment, our team provides continuous support and guidance. We ensure that each step is clear and that any concerns are promptly addressed, making your journey to a beautifully aligned smile as steady and worry-free as possible.

After Braces – What Next?

Once your braces journey ends at Eastern Virginia Orthodontics, the next chapter in maintaining your beautiful smile begins. Post-braces, it’s crucial to use retainers as directed by Dr. Peluso and Dr. Savage. Retainers ensure your teeth stay in their new, correct positions.

Our teams will provide you with a custom-fitted retainer and detailed instructions on how to use it. We may schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. Remember, your journey to a superstar smile doesn’t stop at braces. It’s a lifelong commitment to oral care and maintenance, ensuring your smile stays straight, healthy, and radiant for years.

How Do Braces Straighten Teeth?

Set Your Smile Right at Eastern Virginia Orthodontics

At Eastern Virginia Orthodontics, Dr. Peluso and Dr. Savage and our dedicated team are committed to guiding you through this transformative process. Serving Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch orthodontic solutions tailored to each individual’s needs. Whether considering braces for yourself or a loved one, remember that a beautiful smile is just the beginning. Visit us here to schedule your free consultation.