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We all want that perfect smile and straight teeth are a great place to start. If you’re considering braces for you or your child, you may be wondering how they work. So, here are the basics you should know

 

How do braces work?

Braces apply continuous pressure over a period of time. This slowly moves teeth in a specific direction, and as the teeth move, the bone changes shape as pressure is applied.

 

Components of braces

Braces contain three major parts.

 

Brackets — These are made from a variety of materials and are bonded to each tooth with a special adhesive.

Wire — This is a thin piece of metal that is threaded into hooks or doors on the brackets. Your orthodontist will change the shape and curvature of the wire to move your teeth in the desired direction.

Elastic — If you need your bite corrected, the elastic is essential. It is strung between a hook on an upper bracket and a hook on a lower bracket. This will either pull your upper jaw backward to help fix an overbite or the lower jaw backward to correct an underbite.

 

How long do you have to wear braces?

This will vary from person to person and depends on the severity of the problem. But on average, braces will usually remain in place for one to three years. After braces are removed, most patients will need to wear a retainer at all times for six months, then only during sleep for several years.

 

How often will I need to see the orthodontist?

Your orthodontist will want to see you about once every month to make sure the braces are exerting steady pressure. During your visits, your orthodontist will make adjustments in the wires, springs, or rubber bands of the braces to create more tension. If braces aren’t enough to shift your teeth or jaw, headgear might be required at night.

 

Care after braces come off

Your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned once your braces are removed. Your orthodontist might want to take X-rays and bite impressions to see the final results. This is also when you’ll be fitted and given instructions for a retainer. And now that your teeth are nice and straight, you’ll want to make sure you continue to brush twice daily and floss every day to maintain the health of your new smile.

Own every grin: let us
perfect those pearls.

Dr. John D. Verdugo, D.D.S.

General Dentist

Dr. Verdugo is from Tucson AZ where he received his education, graduating in 1970 with a Chemical Engineering Degree. He worked for Chevron for three years before entering UOP School of Dentistry. Since his graduation in 1976, he has practiced in the Monterey-Salinas area and has continued his professional education in Endontics, Implantology, and Restorative Dentistry. He is available weekdays, weekends and evenings. Speaks Spanish.

Dr. Robert P. Zernicke, D.D.S

General Dentist

Dr. Zernicke grew up in Nevada and received his bachelors degree at the University of Nevada. Dr. Zernicke was the sole recipient of the State of Nevada’s scholarship fund awarded for scholastic achievement which gave him the opportunity to attend Dental School at the University of Southern California. He has been practicing dentistry since 1990 both in Southern California and here in the Salinas area since 1996. Dr. Zernicke is trained in all phases of Dentistry from cosmetics to endodontics. He is available weekdays and evenings. Speaks Spanish.

Member of American Dental Association
Member of California Dental Association