Braces Wire

1. Introduction: What is an orthodontic archwire?

The archwire is an important component of the orthodontic process. It is a thin metal wire that is attached to the brackets on the teeth, creating the force to move the teeth into the desired position. The archwire acts as a “rail” to guide the teeth to move accurately and effectively.

In this article, we will learn in detail about orthodontic archwires, their role, common types of archwires, and things to keep in mind when using archwires during orthodontic treatment.

2. The role of the archwire in the process of braces

Orthodontic archwires play a key role in moving teeth. Specifically:

1. Force generation: The archwire creates a push or pull force to move the teeth to the desired position.

2. Orientation: The archwire helps guide the movement of teeth, ensuring that teeth move according to the treatment plan.

3. Maintain space: The archwire helps maintain space between teeth, preventing teeth from moving back to their original position.

4. Arch adjustment: The arch wire can be bent to adjust the shape of the arch.

5. Force control: The doctor can adjust the stiffness and shape of the archwire to control the force applied to each tooth.

3. Popular types of orthodontic archwires

There are many different types of orthodontic archwires, each with its own characteristics and applications:

1. Stainless steel bow wire:

– Most popular
– High hardness, strong force
Reasonable price

2. Nickel-titanium (NiTi) archwire:

– Highly elastic
– Create gentle, continuous force
– Suitable for early stages of braces

3. Copper-nickel-titanium (CuNiTi) archwire:

– Combines the advantages of NiTi and copper wires
– Create more stable force
– Less affected by temperature

4. Beta-titanium archwire:

– High elasticity
– Create gentle force
– Hypoallergenic

5. Cosmetic archwire:

– Covered with porcelain or tooth-colored plastic
– High aesthetics
– Usually used for adults

4. Structure and operating principle of orthodontic archwire

The structure of the orthodontic archwire is quite simple, but its operating principle is very sophisticated.

Structure:

– A bowstring is a thin, bendable metal wire.
– Bow wire diameters typically range from 0.014 inches to 0.022 inches.
– The bowstring can have a circular or square cross section.

Working principle:

1. The archwire is attached to the brackets on the teeth.
2. Because it is curved according to the ideal jaw shape, the archwire tends to return to its original shape.
3. This tendency creates force on the teeth through the brackets.
4. This force stimulates alveolar bone regeneration, allowing teeth to move.
5. The doctor will adjust the curvature and change the type of archwire during treatment to achieve the desired results.

5. Procedure for attaching and replacing braces wire

The process of attaching and replacing braces wires usually takes place as follows:

1. First bowstring attachment:

– The doctor will choose the appropriate archwire for your teeth condition.
– The arch wire is curved to the ideal jaw shape.
– The archwire is threaded through the brackets and secured with elastic bands or metal pins.

2. Replace the bowstring:

– Typically, the bowstring is replaced every 4-8 weeks.
– The doctor will remove the old wire.
– Check teeth and braces condition.
– Choose a new archwire suitable for the treatment stage.
– Attach the new archwire to the brackets.

3. Adjust the bowstring:

– In some cases, the dentist may simply adjust the current archwire without replacing it.
– Adjustments may include bending the archwire or changing the position of the archwire on the bracket.

Note: The process of changing the bowstring may cause mild discomfort, but is usually not painful. If you experience severe pain, notify your doctor.

6. Advantages and disadvantages of each type of bowstring

Each type of bowstring has its own advantages and disadvantages:

1. Stainless steel bow wire:

– Advantages: Cheap price, high hardness, less deformation.
– Disadvantages: Creates strong force, can cause initial discomfort.

2. Nickel-titanium (NiTi) archwire:

– Advantages: High elasticity, gentle force, less pain.
– Disadvantages: Higher price, easily deformed.

3. Copper-nickel-titanium (CuNiTi) archwire:

– Advantages: Creates stable force, less affected by temperature.
– Disadvantages: High price, can cause allergies in some people.

4. Beta-titanium archwire:

– Advantages: Hypoallergenic, gentle force.
– Disadvantages: High cost, difficult to bend.

5. Cosmetic archwire:

– Advantages: High aesthetics, less noticeable.
– Disadvantages: High cost, easy to stain, lower durability.

7. How to take care of your teeth when wearing braces

Proper oral care while wearing braces is important:

1. Oral hygiene:

– Brush your teeth after every meal, at least twice a day.
– Use a toothbrush specifically for people with braces.
– Use dental floss or an interdental brush to clean between teeth and around braces.

2. Diet:

– Avoid hard, chewy foods that can damage the bowstring.
– Limit sweets and carbonated drinks.
– Cut food into small pieces before eating.

3. Use dental wax:

– Use dental wax to protect the oral mucosa from rubbing against the archwire.

4. Avoid bad habits:

– Do not chew hard objects such as ice or hard candy.
– Do not use your teeth to open the bottle cap.
– Don't bite your nails.

5. Re-examination on time:

– Go for follow-up visits as scheduled by your doctor to have your bow wire checked and adjusted promptly.

8. Common bowstring problems and how to fix them

Some common problems with braces wires and how to handle them:

1. Loose bowstring:

– Cause: Due to teeth moving or the elastic band holding the arch wire is broken.
– Treatment: Contact your doctor for adjustment or replacement of the archwire.

2. Painful bowstring:

– Cause: The bowstring exerts too much force or is bent incorrectly.
– Treatment: Use dental wax to protect the mucosa, contact your doctor if pain persists.

3. Broken bowstring:

– Cause: Due to strong impact or eating hard food.
– Treatment: Contact your doctor immediately to have the archwire replaced.

4. Bowel wire causes mucosal irritation:

– Cause: The bowstring is too long or bent incorrectly.
– Treatment: Use temporary dental wax, contact your doctor for adjustment.

5. Discolored bowstring:

– Cause: Due to eating dark colored foods or smoking.
– Treatment: Clean teeth more thoroughly, limit foods that cause discoloration.

9. Costs associated with orthodontic archwires

The cost associated with braces depends on several factors:

1. Bowstring type: Bowstrings made of high-quality materials or with high aesthetic appeal are often more expensive.
2. Number of times the archwire needs to be changed: The number of times you need to change the archwire during your braces treatment also affects the total cost.
3. Dental address: Reputable dental clinics with good orthodontists often have higher costs.
4. Orthodontic service packages: Some orthodontic service packages include the cost of the archwire, while others charge separately.

In general, the cost of braces is not too high compared to the total cost of braces. However, you should ask your doctor clearly about this cost before starting treatment.

10. Choose a reputable orthodontist

Choosing a reputable orthodontist is an important factor in ensuring a successful and safe orthodontic treatment. A good orthodontist will:

Have a degree and certificate to practice orthodontics.
Experienced in treating many different orthodontic cases.
Using modern orthodontic techniques and materials.
Dedicated, attentive and listen to patient opinions.
Has modern facilities and equipment.

You can find information about orthodontists through:

Clinic website and fanpage.
Patient reviews on forums and social networks.
Relatives and friends have had braces.

11. Frequently asked questions about braces wires

Here are some frequently asked questions about braces wires:

Does the bowstring hurt?

During the process of braces, teeth move with the help of the wire. Therefore, you may feel some discomfort for the first few days after the wire is attached or changed. This feeling is usually not long-lasting and can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Do bowstrings need to be changed regularly?

Yes. The dentist will change the archwire periodically (usually every 4-8 weeks) to gradually increase the pulling force and adjust the direction of tooth movement.

What to do if the bowstring is loose or slipping?

If your archwire becomes loose or slips, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible for an examination and treatment. Trying to adjust the archwire yourself can cause your treatment plan to be disrupted.

Does eating affect the bowstring?

Yes. You should limit eating hard, chewy, sticky foods because they can damage the wire or brackets. You should cut your food into small pieces and chew slowly.

How to clean teeth when wearing braces?

Good oral hygiene is important when wearing braces. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush, dental floss, and mouthwash to clean your teeth and braces after every meal.

Does the bowstring rust?

Braces wires are usually made from stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant alloys. However, if not cleaned properly, they can still become stained or develop residue.

12. Conclusion: The importance of the archwire in the journey to a beautiful smile

Braces wires play a very important role in the orthodontic process, helping teeth move to the desired position, bringing a beautiful and confident smile. Choosing the right type of wire, following the correct treatment process, and taking good care of your teeth will help you achieve the best results. Remember, the wire is an indispensable companion on the journey to conquer the perfect smile!