For quite some time, traditional metal braces have been one of the most recognizable and tried-and-true methods of straightening teeth and addressing all sorts of orthodontic issues. Many of us have worn braces at some point during our lives, or at the very least, we know someone who has. But if you yourself have just started your orthodontic journey, you might be a little alarmed to notice that your braces have made your teeth feel a little loose. Don’t worry, though – this means that your braces are doing their job! Here’s what you need to know.
How Do Braces Work?
Traditional metal braces consist of metal brackets that are bonded to the outer surfaces of teeth, on either one or both arches. A metal archwire is run through all of the brackets, and sometimes elastics and other attachments are added depending on the complexity of the case.
Braces work by subjecting the teeth to constant pressure in order to move them; however, this pressure isn’t intense or outright painful at all. Rather, it is gentle and meant to gradually move your teeth over time, typically over months or years. Pressure is also applied to the periodontal ligament, which refers to the connective tissue surrounding the teeth that is responsible for keeping them in place.
As braces shift the teeth, the ligament contracts and allows them to move, and new bone tissue grows to fill the space where the tooth used to be. It sounds intense, but all of this is happening slowly and at a practically unnoticeable level!
Why Does Wearing Braces Make My Teeth Feel Loose?
The simple answer here is that your teeth feel loose with braces because technically, they are loose! However, this is quite different from when you were younger, and your baby teeth became loose and fell out. Rest assured, though, braces won’t make your teeth fall out.
With braces, your teeth are still securely attached to the periodontal ligament, which in turn is firmly connected to the jaw. The loose feeling results from the stretching and compressing of this ligament, but your teeth are still securely in place along it. Once your teeth have been shifted into their desired positions, your teeth shouldn’t feel loose any longer.
In any case, remember that you’ll still need to keep your teeth clean and healthy while wearing braces; it’s very possible to suffer decay or gum disease that eventually leads to loosened or lost teeth. That said, don’t let anxiety get the best of you during your braces journey – though your teeth may feel loose, your braces are hard at work helping them!
About the Practice
Here at Simply Orthodontics Webster, we proudly offer patients and families in Webster a wide range of orthodontic services, including traditional braces, clear aligners, and various other types of treatments. Our team is well-versed in orthodontics, and whether it’s you or a loved one seeking treatment, you can rest assured we’ll work tirelessly to deliver life-changing results! If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up an appointment, feel free to visit us online or call us today for further assistance. Telephone: (508) 943-2100.