Short answer: Treatment with braces is a fixed orthodontic method that moves the teeth into new positions with gentle, continuous force, using brackets bonded to the teeth and wires that run through them. It is used for problems such as crowding, gaps, deep bite, open bite or crossbite. In most cases, treatment takes between one and a half and two and a half years; after treatment, a retainer is used to keep the teeth in place.
Well-aligned teeth are not only an aesthetic matter; they are also closely linked to ease of cleaning, chewing efficiency and jaw joint health. Treatment with braces is an orthodontic method that corrects alignment and bite problems by moving the teeth in a controlled way by means of brackets bonded to the teeth and wires running through them. In this guide, we explain how braces work, which problems they are used for, the stages of treatment and what to pay attention to throughout the process.
What are braces, and how do they work?
Braces are a fixed orthodontic appliance that applies a continuous, gentle force to the teeth, slowly moving them into new positions within the jawbone. The system has three basic parts: brackets bonded to the surface of the teeth, an archwire that runs through the brackets, and small elastic ties or clips that hold the wire to the bracket.
The secret to how a tooth can move lies in the connective tissue called the periodontal ligament, which attaches its root to the bone. When the wire applies pressure in one direction, the bone on the side of the tooth under pressure slowly remodels, while new bone forms on the opposite side. Because this biological process takes time, controlled and gentle force matters more than speed in orthodontic treatment. Applying excessive force does not speed up treatment; on the contrary, it can damage the tissues.
As treatment progresses, the orthodontist gradually replaces the archwires with stiffer and thicker ones. Flexible wires align the teeth at the start, while stiffer wires in later stages adjust the root positions and the bite.
Which problems are braces used for?
Treatment with braces is used for a wide range of problems, from irregularities in the alignment of the teeth to discrepancies in how the jaws close against each other. Common situations include:
- Crowding: Teeth overlapping or rotating because of a lack of space in the jaw.
- Gaps between the teeth: Spaces between the teeth.
- Deep bite: The upper front teeth covering the lower front teeth too much.
- Open bite: The front teeth not touching each other when the mouth is closed.
- Crossbite: Some of the upper teeth sitting inside the lower teeth.
- Protruding upper teeth or underbite: A disrupted relationship between the front teeth.
These problems do not affect appearance alone. With crowded teeth, plaque buildup increases, the toothbrush cannot reach every surface, and the risk of cavities and gum disease rises. A faulty bite can lead to excessive wear on some teeth and difficulty chewing. In severe skeletal problems arising from the size or position of the jawbones, braces alone may not be enough; growth-modifying appliances may be needed during growth, or surgical support in adulthood.
What types of braces are there?
Braces are divided into several groups according to their material and the surface to which they are applied. Metal brackets are the most common and durable option. Ceramic brackets attract less attention because they are close to tooth color. Lingual brackets are bonded to the inner surface of the teeth and are not visible from the outside. Self-ligating brackets hold the wire with a small clip instead of an elastic tie.
In addition to these, clear aligners, an alternative that does not use brackets, are also widely used in orthodontic treatment. At our clinic, clear aligner treatment is provided only with Invisalign. You can read about what the method involves on our what are clear aligners page. Which system is chosen is decided together with the orthodontist according to the needs of the case and the patient's expectations.
What are the process and duration of treatment with braces?
Treatment with braces consists of successive stages: the exam and records, bonding the brackets, regular checkups and retention. In most cases, the total duration is between one and a half and two and a half years, but it may be shorter in simple cases and longer in complex ones.
- Exam and records: An intraoral exam is done, and X-rays, photographs and impressions are taken. Any cavities and gum problems are treated first.
- Treatment plan: The orthodontist plans the sequence of tooth movements, the need for extractions or for gaining space, and the estimated duration. The treatment fee is provided in writing after this stage.
- Bonding the brackets: The teeth are cleaned, the brackets are placed with a special adhesive and the first archwire is inserted. The procedure does not require anesthesia.
- Checkup appointments: These usually take place every four to eight weeks. Wires are changed, elastic ties are replaced and progress is assessed.
- Removing the brackets and retention: When the teeth reach their target positions, the brackets are removed, adhesive residue is cleaned off and a retainer is fitted.
It is normal to feel sensitivity in the teeth for the first few days after the brackets are placed and after wire changes. Soft foods can be preferred during this period. Orthodontic wax helps with irritation that the brackets cause on the cheeks and lips.
How should you care for your teeth during treatment?
While wearing braces, you need to take more care with oral hygiene than ever, because the areas around the brackets are very prone to plaque buildup. Inadequate cleaning can lead to enamel demineralization around the brackets, known as white spots, and to gum inflammation.
- Brush your teeth after every meal, focusing especially on the area between the bracket and the gum.
- Use fluoride toothpaste; if your orthodontist recommends it, add a fluoride mouthwash.
- Clean between your teeth with an interdental brush and floss that can be threaded under the wire.
- Avoid hard, sticky and hard-to-chew foods (hard nuts, caramel, chewing gum, ice).
- Eat hard fruits and vegetables such as apples and carrots cut into small pieces.
- Let your orthodontist know without delay about a broken or loose bracket.
It is also important to have a general dental checkup every six months during treatment and, if necessary, a professional teeth cleaning.
Braces or clear aligners?
Braces and clear aligners are two methods that reach the same goal by different routes, and which one is suitable depends on the case and the person's lifestyle. Since fixed braces are in the mouth at all times, they work independently of patient compliance and can offer an advantage for some complex movements. Clear aligners, on the other hand, attract less attention and can be removed for eating and cleaning; however, to be effective, they need to be worn about 20–22 hours a day.
For those who are undecided, we recommend our article clear aligners or braces, in which we compare the two methods in terms of appearance, comfort, care and use.
What happens after treatment ends?
After the brackets are removed, the retention period begins to prevent the teeth from tending to move back to their former positions. During this period, a thin fixed wire may be bonded to the inner surface of the teeth and/or a removable retainer to be worn at night may be provided. Long-term retainer use is recommended; teeth continue to move slightly throughout life.
When should you have an exam for braces in Ankara?
If you notice crowding, gaps, a bite problem or difficulty chewing, you do not need to wait for a particular age for an orthodontic assessment; for children, the first check can be done around age 7, and for adults, whenever the need arises. At our clinic in Oran, our orthodontist explains the options that suit you after the exam and records; to make an appointment, you can reach us through our contact page.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt when braces are put on?
Bonding the brackets is a procedure that does not require anesthesia. For a few days after the braces are put on and after wire changes, pressure and sensitivity may be felt in the teeth. In most people, this feeling soon decreases; for long-lasting or severe pain, you should see your orthodontist.
Up to what age can braces be worn?
As long as the teeth and gums are healthy enough, there is no strict upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. Tooth movement is also possible in adults, but the condition of the bone and gums is evaluated more carefully. Suitability is determined by an exam.
Which foods should I avoid while wearing braces?
Hard, sticky and hard-to-chew foods can cause brackets to break or the wire to bend. For this reason, hard nuts, caramel, chewing gum and ice are not recommended. Hard fruits and vegetables can be eaten cut into small pieces.
Do the teeth go back to how they were after treatment?
Without retention, the teeth may tend to move partly back to their former positions. For this reason, a fixed or removable retainer is used at the end of treatment. Following the retainer routine is decisive in preserving the result achieved.
