Ever see those tiny metal springs stretching across the teeth of someone who’s wearing metal braces? They are an essential component for many types of alignment. Though they may seem silly and like they’re hardly doing anything at all, the presence of coil springs for braces is effective.
How Do Coil Springs Work?
Springs work together with brackets and wires to apply tooth movement in the proper direction whether that is parallel between neighboring teeth (coil springs) or from upper to lower jaw (Forsus springs). The springs are their own mini orthodontic system.
Springs, which typically require several months of wear to be effective, are often attached between brackets which serve as anchors and make the transfer of force from springs to teeth possible. Archwires also offer controlled force together with the coil for carefully controlled movement.
Who Needs Coil Springs for Braces?
Not every orthodontic patient will need coil springs on their braces. Your orthodontist will carefully assess your unique case and determine if springs are required for all, part, or none of your treatment time. Here are common circumstances where springs may be added:
- Crowded teeth: When extra space is needed between crowded teeth, the spring applies gentle force to achieve alignment.
- Extracted teeth: When a baby tooth is extracted, and there is no adult tooth to yet fill its place, a coil spring can maintain the space so nearby teeth don’t move to fill the gap.
- Rotated teeth: If a tooth is rotated out of position, continuous force – beyond that of the metal braces – is necessary to twist the tooth into proper alignment.
- Diastema: Diastema is the fancy term for gapped teeth, particularly the front two teeth. Coil springs apply the force needed to bring the teeth closer together.
- Bite: Overbites and underbites are addressed with Forsus springs, using force and adjust the alignment of the jaw.
Types of Orthodontic Springs
When your orthodontist says springs will be needed for your or your child’s orthodontic treatment, here are some of the options to expect:
- Open coil springs: Positioned between two brackets on the same archwire to apply gentle force and create space between teeth to relieve crowding or make room for a tooth to rotate or move into its proper position.
- Closed coil springs: Compressed-looking but not-so-visible springs that work continuously to close a space or gap between teeth.
- Continuous coil springs: Deliver constant force and tooth movements as needed, such as closing spaces, rotating a tooth, or aligning dental arches.
Embrace the Effectiveness of Coil Springs for Braces
Springs make orthodontic treatment even more predictable and precise. The work gets done efficiently and effectively so the wearer can see their teeth become more aligned and attractive. Your orthodontist knows exactly where and how each tooth in your mouth will move and when. Efficient springs and things forward the progress of orthodontics and make treatment as speedy as possible.
Find out whether you or your tween or teen will need coil springs for braces or other appliances during orthodontic treatment from Soleil Orthodontics in Woodinville. Schedule a consultation to get the scoop.