Do you desire to have beautifully aligned teeth and a perfect bite? Orthodontic springs are an important orthodontic appliance that helps turn this dream into a reality. This article from My Auris will answer what orthodontic springs are, how they work, and their role in the orthodontic process.
What are orthodontic springs?
Orthodontic springs are small components made from special dental materials such as stainless steel or titanium alloy. They are attached to brackets or archwires, creating forces to pull, push, or rotate teeth. This force acts on the teeth, jawbone, and gums, gradually moving the teeth into the desired position. Springs come in various shapes, sizes, and elasticity levels, suitable for each specific case.
Common types of orthodontic springs
Closed coil springs (pulling springs): This type of spring creates a pulling force between two teeth or between a tooth and a bracket. They are often used to close tooth gaps and move teeth to their correct positions on the arch. Closed coil springs come in various sizes and shapes, depending on the distance to be moved and the tooth’s position. The dentist will select the appropriate spring for each specific case.
Open coil springs (pushing springs): In contrast to closed coil springs, open coil springs create a pushing force between two teeth. They are often used to create space on the arch, preparing for the alignment of crowded teeth. Open coil springs also vary in size and shape, allowing dentists to easily choose and apply them in many different cases.
Torque springs (torsion springs): Torque springs are often attached to the orthodontic archwire and brackets. They create rotational force, helping to adjust the orientation of the teeth. Torque springs are especially useful for correcting teeth that are malpositioned, rotated, or tilted.
Closed loop springs: This type of spring has a closed design, often placed between two teeth or between a tooth and a bracket. They create continuous force, helping to move teeth slowly and steadily. Closed loop springs are typically used in the early stages of orthodontic treatment to create space or gently adjust tooth positions.
Open loop springs: Open loop springs have an open design, allowing for easier force adjustment. The dentist can increase or decrease the force applied to the teeth by adjusting the open spring. This type of spring is often used in the later stages of orthodontic treatment when precise tooth position adjustments are needed.
Duration of orthodontic treatment using springs
Typically, orthodontic treatment using springs lasts from several months to several years.
Simple cases: Closing small gaps, correcting minor tooth misalignment may take several months, approximately 3-6 months.
Complex cases: Malocclusion, severely misaligned teeth may take 1-3 years, or even longer.
Factors affecting the duration:
Complexity of the treatment case: Mildly misaligned teeth or small gaps require less time compared to malocclusion or severely crowded teeth.
Type of spring: Pushing springs, pulling springs, space closing springs… each type has a different mechanism of action and treatment duration.
Age: Orthodontic treatment in children, whose jawbones are still developing, is often faster than in adults.
Patient cooperation: Adhering to appointments and maintaining proper oral hygiene helps shorten the treatment time.
Does wearing orthodontic springs cause pain?
Orthodontic springs are one of the intraoral appliances that play an important role in the orthodontic process. This device functions by creating pushing or pulling forces to expand or reduce the space between teeth, thereby adjusting the teeth to their desired positions.
Because they directly impact the dental system and surrounding soft tissues, it is completely normal to experience soreness, aching, or discomfort in the initial phase when first wearing the springs. According to specialists, these pains are a sign that the orthodontic springs are working effectively, performing their role of applying force correctly.
However, you do not need to worry excessively. The aching sensation will gradually subside as your body gets used to the appliance in your mouth. After a few days to a week, eating and oral hygiene with braces will become easier. To alleviate discomfort, you can rinse with warm salt water, eat soft foods, and avoid biting hard objects.
Things to note and costs when using orthodontic springs
The use of springs requires strict adherence to the dentist’s instructions. Proper oral hygiene is a key factor. Springs can make cleaning difficult, so you need to pay attention to brushing thoroughly around the springs and brackets, and using dental floss to remove food debris.
Regular check-ups according to the doctor’s schedule are very important. The doctor will examine and adjust the pulling force of the springs, ensuring the tooth movement process proceeds as planned.
During the use of springs, you may encounter some issues such as discomfort, impingement, or even mild pain. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience any problems, and avoid attempting to fix them yourself.
Your diet also needs to be adjusted. Limit hard, chewy, sticky foods that can damage or dislodge the springs. Prioritize soft, easy-to-chew foods.
Cost of using orthodontic springs:
The cost of using springs is usually included in the total cost of orthodontic treatment. However, the cost may vary depending on the type of spring, the clinic, and the patient’s dental condition. Consult your doctor to know the exact cost.
Choosing a reputable dental clinic with experienced doctors is also very important. Do not hesitate to ask questions to understand the process, costs, and things to keep in mind when using springs.
Factors affecting the cost:
Material: Springs are made from various materials, each with a different cost.
Complexity: Custom-designed springs for more complex cases will incur higher costs.
Clinic: Each clinic has different pricing.
