Braces are devices designed to correct crooked, crowded or misaligned teeth. They are most often made of stainless steel, but may also be made of ceramic or plastic. A combination of brackets and connecting wires are affixed to the teeth so that light pressure is continuously applied to the teeth until they shift into proper position. Treatment times vary, but usually last between one and three years.

An orthodontist oversees treatment with braces. Orthodontists are dentists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of bite or alignment problems. Braces are used to correct malocclusions, or conditions that result in a “bad bite.” These include crooked or crowded teeth, extra or missing teeth, and size differences between the upper and lower jaw.

Braces are often used purely for cosmetic purposes. Patients may find that having straighter teeth or a more exact bite improves their appearance. However, braces can also be used to correct medical or dental problems related to malocclusions, such as improving a person’s ability to chew or talk. Straightening a patient’s teeth may prevent or correct abnormal wear of teeth, stress on gum tissue and bone that supports the teeth, and misalignment of the jaw.

Contemporary braces usually consist of small stainless steel, ceramic or plastic brackets that are bonded onto the teeth. Thin wires known as arch wires are threaded through the brackets and used to pull the teeth into position. As teeth shift position, the wires are periodically adjusted so that the braces continue to apply adequate pressure on the teeth.

Once treatment with braces has ended, the brackets and wires are removed and the patient is asked to wear a retainer. This is a small piece of hard plastic that contains metal wires and is specially molded to fit the patient’s teeth. Retainers may be removable or fixed inside the mouth. Retainers are designed to give the bone and gums additional time to stabilize around repositioned teeth.

Treatment of malocclusions with braces usually takes place during childhood, when a patient is young. At this age, the jaw is still growing and can better accommodate the changes that take place. However, adults are increasingly choosing to have braces to correct malocclusions.

While wearing braces, patients may have to make certain lifestyle adjustments. For example, patients are urged to avoid eating certain types of foods (e.g., hard or sticky candy), because they may stick to the braces or may cause brackets or wires to become damaged. Patients also are urged to be vigilant about regularly brushing and flossing their teeth.