Partial bracket system is an optimal solution when you need to correct individual misaligned teeth, and there are no bite issues or jaw asymmetry, or in the case of retreatment.
Braces are orthodontic devices that cannot be removed. Their installation is aimed at correcting an improper bite. These systems can be installed in children aged 12 and older, after the permanent teeth have erupted. However, there are no age restrictions, and they can be installed even at the age of 50. Nevertheless, correcting the bite with braces is easier and faster at an earlier stage of life.
In a more mature age, contraindications may arise:
- Mental and psychoneurotic disorders.
- Oncological diseases.
- Tuberculosis.
- Cardiovascular problems.
- Hepatitis.
- Caries and inadequate oral hygiene.
- Allergy to the materials used for the braces.
- Hemophilia.
With the help of braces systems, you can not only correct tooth misalignment and bite but also address speech defects, such as lisping and slurring. Sometimes such anomalies arise due to an improper bite.
Types of Bracket Systems
A bracket system is a device that attaches to the front of the teeth and is used to correct dental anomalies. Braces are connected by a special nickel-titanium wire.
There are different types of braces:
- Ceramic braces: They are inconspicuous when talking but more expensive and less durable than metal braces. They are usually installed in adult patients over 20 years old, but treatment with them may take longer.
- Metal braces: These braces are the most durable but noticeable when talking.
- Sapphire braces: They are also durable and resistant to staining from food and drinks. Plaque does not accumulate on them.
- Lingual partial braces: These are installed on the inside of the teeth and are not visible when talking and smiling. However, in the first two weeks after installation, speech defects may arise, and their care is more challenging. Treatment using such systems also takes more time.
- Partial braces are designed to be installed on one jaw or on several teeth, for example, to correct minor anomalies when the bite is generally correct but there are minor defects.
They have several advantages:
- Installation causes less discomfort.
- Ability to use lingual constructions that are not visible when smiling.
- The cost of installation is much lower than installing braces on all teeth at once.
- Partial braces can be installed in children as young as 8 years old, even if they still have baby teeth.
Partial braces are recommended in cases of:
- Slight tooth misalignment with correct lateral bite.
- Lack of space in the jaw.
- Need to correct teeth before prosthetics.
- Slight tooth twisting.
- Gap between front incisors, with a proper bite and proper closure of lateral teeth.
Partial braces are usually used to correct specific dental anomalies, rather than changing the bite as a whole.
How Braces Are Installed?
The procedure for installing braces is as follows:
- First, the orthodontist examines the patient and, if necessary, refers them to a general dentist for treatment. Before installing braces, all teeth that require treatment must be treated.
- The orthodontist takes an impression of the jaw and performs the necessary X-ray diagnostics.
- Based on the impression, an individual correction system is created.
- Correction devices are selected based on the jaw structure and patient’s preferences.
- The correction devices are attached to the teeth using a special material.
- The patient needs to visit the orthodontist once a month for examination and adjustments. The duration of treatment is up to two years for children and up to one year for adults.
Caring for Braces
Caring for partial braces is similar to caring for braces installed on both jaws and includes the following steps:
- After each meal, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the oral cavity. The duration of cleaning may increase because food can get stuck not only between the teeth but also in the elements of the bracket system.
- For cleaning teeth with orthodontic appliances, it is recommended to use a special toothbrush that can be purchased at a pharmacy. These brushes have a groove in the middle to reach the teeth. The brushing technique is the same as with a regular toothbrush. You can also use a single-tufted brush to clean the brackets with circular motions at a right angle.
- If there is no opportunity to clean the teeth immediately after eating, it is recommended to purchase a portable irrigator, dental floss, and brushes. A portable irrigator operates on batteries and allows you to rinse away all the food particles, ensuring cleanliness.
