Your Fixed Braces in Berlin
From Metal Brackets, Ceramic Brackets & More
We would like to inform you about the various types of fixed braces and the process of orthodontic treatment at the KU64 dental practice.
A multi-bracket appliance (MB) – the fixed brace – consists of brackets and bands that the orthodontist adheres to the teeth to be moved. These teeth are then connected by an archwire, which applies force to the teeth through its elastic tendency to return to its original shape, moving the tooth into the correct position.
THE BRACKETS OF A BRACE
The materials used by the orthodontist for fixed braces with brackets range from unprogrammed stainless steel brackets to nearly invisible ceramic brackets. Brackets can also be applied to the inner surface of the teeth, making the fixed braces completely undetectable. In some cases, the orthodontist has the option to use conventional materials to create a virtually invisible brace. However, for those who want a truly invisible brace, we recommend learning more about “Invisalign,” which is also offered by our practice.
Braces with Stainless Steel Brackets
With unprogrammed stainless steel brackets (also known as metal brackets), the archwire is held in place by an elastic ring or fine wires (ligatures). These brackets are quite large, and cleaning between the rubber rings or ligatures can be challenging.
Braces with Mini Brackets
Mini brackets require less bonding surface on the teeth, making them less noticeable and creating less of a foreign body sensation in the mouth compared to traditional braces.
Braces with SL Brackets
Self-ligating brackets (SL brackets, Damon Q) feature a small flap that holds the archwire in place within the bracket slot. The archwire is not held by elastic rings or wires. The advantage of braces with self-ligating brackets is that the archwire can glide freely within the slot, overcoming no friction resistance. This results in more efficient force transmission and a shorter orthodontic treatment time. Self-ligating brackets are available in both metal and ceramic versions.
Braces with Ceramic Brackets
Ceramic brackets are tooth-colored and less noticeable (Damon Clear). The material is more brittle and harder. As a result, patients may experience wear on their teeth if they bite into a ceramic bracket. In some cases, ceramic brackets must be carefully ground down during the removal of the braces.
THE ARCHWIRES OF A BRACE
Archwires are categorized into steel wires and super-elastic or thermoelastic wires.
Steel Archwires vs. Super-Elastics in Braces
Steel archwires are easy to bend but fatigue quickly, reducing the force they apply on the teeth. For this reason, super-elastic archwires were developed in orthodontics. These archwires cannot be bent, but they offer high spring force. They apply a very small but continuous force on the tooth over an extended period. This protects the tissue and facilitates necessary bone remodeling. The risk of side effects, such as root damage, is significantly reduced. At the same time, treatment time can be drastically shortened.
The forces exerted by modern super-elastic archwires on the tooth-supporting structures are within a range considered gentle to the teeth by modern orthodontics. Therefore, many disadvantages of traditional braces are no longer observed today. With the use of the latest materials and consideration of current medical standards, modern fixed braces do not harm the teeth or the supporting structures. The use of the latest techniques and materials has been standard in our practice since its inception. However, appropriate at-home oral hygiene remains essential.
CONSULTATION ON FIXED BRACES
No matter which of the many brace options available at our practice you choose in consultation with your orthodontist, you’re making a great choice. Straight teeth and a charming smile can greatly enhance your quality of life.
Do you have any questions? Feel free to contact us. Our team of qualified orthodontists is happy to assist with any inquiries and provide further information about orthodontics and all types of braces (fixed braces, invisible aligners from Invisalign, Spark, or WIN)!
Our team is also happy to answer any questions about the costs of orthodontic treatment! Schedule an appointment by calling 030-8647320, quickly and easily online HERE, or simply send an email to info@ku64.de – we will get back to you as soon as possible!