Brace Springs: What Are They & Who Needs Them?

What Are Brace Springs?

Brace springs are a component of orthodontic appliances designed to address specific dental alignment challenges. These small springs, often referred to as coil springs, create or maintain space between teeth or to apply additional pressure to move teeth into their desired positions.

Springs in braces are typically made from durable materials like stainless steel or nickel-titanium. They are integrated into traditional metal or ceramic braces to enhance treatment precision and efficiency.

Types of Springs Used in Braces

Orthodontists may use different types of springs depending on the treatment plan. Here are the most common ones:

Open Coil Springs

Purpose: Open coil springs are designed to create space between two teeth.

How They Work: When placed along the archwire, these springs apply gentle outward force to push the teeth apart. This is often necessary to accommodate a tooth that needs to emerge or shift into position.

Closed Coil Springs

Purpose: These springs are used to maintain or control the space between teeth.

How They Work: Closed coil springs compress when placed between brackets, ensuring the gap between teeth doesn’t change unintentionally during treatment.

Forsus Springs

Purpose: Forsus springs are a type of spring appliance used to correct bite issues, such as overbites.

How They Work: These springs connect the upper and lower braces to help reposition the jaw.

What Functions Do Springs on Braces Serve?

Springs in braces play a crucial role in addressing complex orthodontic problems. Here are the main functions:

Creating Space: Open coil springs are essential for patients who have crowding or need room for a tooth to be aligned.

Maintaining Space: Closed coil springs are helpful for keeping gaps stable, particularly when preparing for further adjustments.

Correcting Jaw Alignment: Springs like Forsus devices aid in bite correction, reducing overbites or underbites.

Speeding Up Treatment: Springs can make certain adjustments more efficient, ensuring optimal results within the shortest possible time.

Why Do Some Patients Need Braces With Springs?

Orthodontists recommend braces with springs for patients whose dental issues require precise movement or alignment. Common scenarios include:

Crowded Teeth: When there isn’t enough room for teeth to align properly, springs can create the necessary space.

Impacted Teeth: In cases where a tooth is trapped under the gum, springs help make room for the tooth to move into place.

Bite Issues: Patients with overbites, underbites, or crossbites may benefit from Forsus springs to align their jaws correctly.

Retention of Gaps: For patients awaiting implants or other restorative work, springs ensure that gaps remain the correct size.

At Hampstead Orthodontic Practice, we specialise in personalised orthodontic care for both adults and children. If you’re dealing with common orthodontic issues like crowding or bite misalignment, explore our options for adult braces or children’s braces.

Potential Issues With Braces Springs

While springs in braces are highly effective, they may come with minor challenges, including:

Discomfort: Some patients experience initial discomfort when springs are installed or adjusted. This usually subsides within a few days.

Irritation: Springs can sometimes rub against the cheeks or lips, causing mild irritation. Orthodontic wax can help alleviate this.

Breakage: While rare, springs can occasionally break or lose tension. Regular orthodontic check-ups ensure they function properly throughout your treatment.

What to Expect During Treatment

If your orthodontist recommends springs as part of your treatment, here’s what you can expect:

Initial Placement: Springs are installed during a regular adjustment appointment. You might feel light pressure as they begin working.

Adjustments: Your orthodontist will periodically check and adjust the springs to maintain their effectiveness.

Care Tips: Keeping your braces clean is crucial, especially around the springs. Use interdental brushes to remove food debris and prevent plaque build-up.

Ready to Address Orthodontic Problems?

If you or your child needs orthodontic treatment involving springs, Hampstead Orthodontic Practice is here to help. We’ll provide a customized treatment plan to meet your needs and achieve a healthy, confident smile. Learn more about solutions for common orthodontic problems and start your journey today.

Conclusion

Springs on braces are vital tools in modern orthodontics, offering precision and efficiency in treating alignment and spacing issues. Whether you need space created, gaps maintained, or bite correction, these devices play an essential role in achieving optimal results. By understanding their functions and potential challenges, you’ll feel more confident during your orthodontic journey.

Whether you're preparing for orthodontic treatment or just looking to maintain good oral health, schedule a FREE consultation with us today. We'll be happy to guide you on your journey to a healthier smile!