An Overview of The Ways Teeth Move
Posted: Monday, November 30, 2009
by Mark Mutschler
Great Grins
When teeth need to be straightened, or moved, you need an expert in orthodontics. Research has shown that the way to move the teeth is to apply prolonged gentle pressure. In fact, the tongue, lips and other teeth naturally move teeth. In addition, thumb sucking can move teeth too.
Orthodontic appliances such as braces, apply pressure over a long time, which moves teeth. Typically, orthodontic visits are planned about four to six weeks between each other.
To realign the teeth as quickly as possible, patients are required to wear either an elastic band or other corrective appliance. This is placed on the teeth for most of the day as the continual pressure is what moves the teeth.
Teeth will not move if there isn't enough pressure. It can be uncomfortable for a patient when their teeth are first moved. Many patients try to avoid chewing on them, but chewing actually can help.
Chewing causes the teeth to move slightly which induces the blood to nourish the bone. This feeds the cells which move the teeth. Two common analgesics, Tylenol and Motrin, are very efficient in controlling pain and discomfort.
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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)Ohhhh, you are bringing back not so fun memories of the 2 times I had braces...yes TWO, my folks switched orthodontists in the middle of the process and for a very good reason - I should write a story...Marijo
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