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Parts of Braces

Braces are the most effective means for correcting orthodontic problems. They are made up of several important components that allow Dr. Stormberg to create beautiful smiles.

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What Are the Different Parts of Braces?

Dr. Stormberg strives to provide the best treatment for each patient based on their unique needs. If you have crooked or crowded teeth, you may need braces. There are different types of braces available, but it helps to know the different parts of braces when choosing the one that’s best for you.

Archwires

The wire portion of braces is also commonly known as “archwires.” These are the parts of braces that help to gradually shift the teeth into their proper position. Depending on the specific issues with your teeth, your La Mesa orthodontist will determine the depth of thickness you need in the archwires in your braces. LIght, round, nickel titanium archwires are first used to help rotate and level the teeth. Thicker or rectangular shaped archwires are used to detail, close spaces, adjust your bite with elastics and stablize. The brackets slide along the wires and your teeth reposition into a better position. Each bracket has a specific prescription designed by Dr. Stormberg to level and align each tooth into their ideal position.

Brackets

Brackets are the small metal squares attached to the teeth to hold the wires of your braces in place. Depending on the type of braces you choose, they adhere to the front of the teeth. The brackets keep the archwire secure so that it can move the teeth. Brackets can be made from metal or ceramic. Usually, when they are ceramic, it’s because the patient prefers ceramic braces, which are harder to see and blend in better with the natural color of the teeth.

Elastics or Ligatures

Alastics or metal ligatures, are the parts of braces that keep the wires and brackets together. The alastics are rubber bands that you can select in different colors when getting fitted for braces at Stormberg Orthodontics. The purpose of these parts of braces is to aid in the proper alignment of the teeth by holding the archwire in place. Metal ligatures are used if the archwire does not lie passively in the bracket, helps to level or rotate a crooked tooth. It’s like tying your shoes to keep them in place

Bands

Bands are metal rings that fit around the molars and even premolars if a child gets braces. Dr. Kurt Stormberg will ensure that these parts are properly sized to fit your needs before sealing them to your teeth with dental cement. Depending on the problem, bands can be hooked into different areas of the teeth. Learn about the colors you can choose to personalize your braces.

Hooks

Hooks are pieces made of metal that are either welded or removable. They connect to the brackets on a set of braces so that elastics or ligatures can be attached in place.

Coil Springs

Coil springs fit between the brackets and over the archwire to push the teeth outward when there is an issue of crowding.

Separators or Spacers

Some patients need separators or spacers, which are like tiny rubber bands, on the molars. These are used for one week to push the molars apart to create enough space to place a band.

Molar Bands

Molar bands are made of metal and attached with rubber bands to the teeth in the back of the mouth. They help along the process of allowing the teeth to move and properly align.

Power Chains

Power chains are used in much the same way as elastics or ligatures. However, they are even stronger and help to prevent gaps or close spaces between the teeth.

Palatal Expander

Palatal expanders are used to widen the upper arch. A La Mesa orthodontist can use it to address the problem of a crossbite or narrow upper teeth. Usually in place for about three months. The upper teeth should fit completely over the lower teeth. A smaller, transpalatal (across the palate) bar will be placed once the expansion is completed.

Braces can help straighten your teeth and address other issues that can improve your smile and boost your confidence.

How it Works

1. Getting to Know You

Your first visit to our office is the beginning of your orthodontic journey, and we’re just as excited as you! We take complimentary Xrays and images of your teeth and Dr. Stormberg performs a thorough examination of your teeth, mouth, and gums. 

2. Custom Treatment Plan

Dr. Stormberg creates a customized treatment plan for each patient to ensure you reach your full smile potential! At Stormberg Orthodontics, we want to help you get the smile that you love with treatment as convenient as possible.

3. Your New Smile

We pride ourselves on giving our patients beautiful, healthy smiles that last a lifetime and that dedication doesn’t end when your braces are removed. Stormberg Orthodontics offers a variety of retainer options to find the best fit for your smile and lifestyle.

Just Moved? We Are Accepting New Patients!

If you have already begun orthodontic treatment and you’ve recently moved to the area, don’t worry, we can help make the process of switching to, or from, our office as easy as possible.
  • Military Transfers
  • Job Transfers
  • College Students
  • FAQs from Dr. Kurt Stormberg

    How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?
    We can only determine treatment costs after your initial consultation is completed, as each patient’s case is unique. You can learn more about our Financing & Insurance policies on our website, or speak to one of our staff members at the office. We’ll review your financing options with you, and will work with you to maximize your insurance benefits.
    Will I need to have teeth extract for braces?
    It depends on your unique situation, but sometimes in order to achieve optimal results, teeth may need to be removed. However, advanced technology and methods have made this less common.
    Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?
    Yes, absolutely! A tooth will a crown will move just like a regular tooth, and treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth.
    Do braces hurt?
    Braces or Invisalign don’t “hurt,” but for the first couple days you may feel some slight discomfort. When there is soreness, Motrin or Advil (ibuprofen) can help ease the discomfort.
    Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?
    Absolutely. There’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to return to your normal daily life.

    What are you waiting for?

    Smile Brighter Today!

    We have treatments to bring out the best in any smile. Learn about your options at your complimentary visit.
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