Orthodontic braces simply known as dental braces are dental devices which help to improve the shape of the mouth by helping to straighten and align the teeth in a better fashion improving upon the aesthetic appeal of an individual. Orthodontic braces over the years have developed as one of the major components of dentistry and today the majority of the dental work is involved in orthodontic braces.

People of all age group irrespective of sex and other factors make use of orthodontic braces to improve their teeth line. The treatment time has decreased over the years and the materials used for making the braces have improved resulting in less gaudy appearances. Though the aesthetic appeal is the major factor for using dental braces crooked teeth formation in bites out bites irregular jaw shape are also reasons enough to use dental braces.

Sometimes the usage of the dental brace to improve the aesthetic appeal can also have negative consequences such that the shape of the face and the jaw line can change significantly leading to awkward situations consultation with the dentist is necessary to annul the fears. The time period various around two years or more as the pressure have to be applied slowly so as not to lose the teeth.

The metal or composite braces apply pressure on the teeth towards a desired side and the teeth align on those lines. New bone growth takes place in the preferred direction and the teeth is firmly held in its place. Over the period of two years the frequency of visit to the dentist is limited to once a month or every three weeks as the teeth cannot be forced into alignment quickly.

Most of the treatment for correction is done by teenagers and young adults in the age group between 16 and 25. It is into uncommon for older adults to use dental braces but the period of treatment will extend. Some of the common problems associated with the usage of teeth braces include headache, sore teeth, plaque formation around the braces, face disconfiguration, breakage of teeth etc. Care should be taken to ensure that teeth are brushed properly at least twice a day.

Regular use of mouth wash is also advised as the usage of braces can lead to bad breath. After the retainers are removed the patient has to wear retainers so that the aligned tooth does not return to its original position.