For many of us, the first time we see someone with braces, it can be weird. With little pieces of metal or resin on individual teeth, usually attached with wires and rubber bands, they can have a strange appearance. We may wonder why they are there, for what purpose, how did they get put on, and how do they work? The answer can be a fascinating one, and we here at Star Orthodontics are happy to tell you all about it.

What Are Braces?

It helps to start at the beginning to understand how fascinating braces really are. Braces were invented back in 1819 by a man named Christophe-Francois Delabarre, yet it wasn't until the 1900s when the term braces became a commonly used phrase. Back in the 1800s, braces were usually created from strips of metal that were clamped onto your gums, rather than the more familiar modern method of putting them on your teeth.

These days, you can find braces with an assortment of different colors and styles to fit your tastes. Braces are now put on your teeth with a type of mouth glue instead of being bolted on. This can make it much easier to remove a braces when the alignment is complete.

The primary purpose of braces is to gently guide each individual tooth into a predetermined position for optimal placement. This can be completed over a span of a few years and can eliminate many of the issues that can come from having crooked or impacted teeth.

Why Braces Might Be Necessary

The cause of crooked teeth can stem from many different factors, including sucking on your thumb or pacifier as a child or a facial injury, such as a baseball to the jaw. Braces can also be used to fix the minor imperfections or gaps between your teeth. They could be implemented to make it easier to eat for those who have significant structural damage, as braces can close any gaps as well as make it easier for you to chew your food.

You will likely need braces if your teeth are misplaced or crooked. The best way for us to do this is through the innovative use of regular or digital x-rays. We should be able to detect any potential issues, and with 3D imaging, we can predict possible future issues such as an overbite before it can become a problem. This will help us to decide what procedures may be necessary to fix any issues you may have. If we notice any irregularities or possible complications that may hinder your oral health in the future, then we will consider and discuss treatment plans such as braces and which type may work best for you.

Braces can mean the difference between correcting an issue that could cause problems such as eating, sleeping, or speaking, and having the confidence to proudly show your smile. If you are considering whether or not braces may be something you might need, do not hesitate to give us here at Star Orthodontics a call at 361-371-8555 to schedule an appointment.