Many people today still wonder about the term “space closure” in dentistry? Is space closure necessary when wearing braces? and countless questions surrounding this issue, especially for those who are planning to wear braces. To provide readers with the most comprehensive view of “space closure” in the process of wearing braces, Bally Dental would like to share some important knowledge in the article below. Let’s explore!
What is space closure?
Space closure in braces is the process of moving and rearranging teeth to fill the gaps between them, to create even and straight teeth. This process is often performed after teeth are extracted or when there are natural gaps between teeth. Space closure helps improve the aesthetics and function of the teeth, while helping to maintain facial balance and harmony.
Stage of space closure in braces
Stage of space closure in braces will take place as follows:
Straightening teeth stage
This is the first step in the orthodontic treatment process. After establishing a detailed treatment plan for each patient, the doctor will attach appliances such as braces and fixed archwires to the teeth. During this stage, the doctor will tighten the braces and archwires to create traction, helping the teeth move to the desired position. This stage can last from 2 to 6 months, depending on the condition of each person’s teeth. Patients may feel pain and discomfort in the first few days, but this feeling usually only lasts from 2 to 5 days.
Tooth root adjustment phase
After the teeth have moved to the correct position and are upright, the dentist will adjust the teeth by using an archwire to create traction. This force helps to straighten the rotated, misaligned and crooked teeth. This stage can last from 2 to 4 months. This stage helps the tooth axis become straighter and more stable.
Space closure phase
Once the teeth are fairly aligned, the space closure process begins. This phase helps fill in gaps, especially if the patient has had teeth extracted previously. Space closure typically takes 4 to 8 months. During this phase, the patient will notice a noticeable change in their teeth.
Vertical closure phase
This phase is extremely important because it will determine the chewing function of the teeth after orthodontics. The doctor will attach elastic bands from the upper jaw to the lower jaw vertically, in order to adjust the two jaws to the correct bite and contact each other evenly. The closure phase usually takes place quite quickly, only from 2 to 8 weeks. This is also the phase that solves most dental problems such as gaps and misaligned bites.
Retention phase
After removing the braces, the doctor will use appliances to fix the new position of the teeth, preventing them from moving back to their old position. The time to wear the retainer will vary from person to person, usually lasting from 6 months to 1 year, depending on the condition of the bite after orthodontics and the type of retainer chosen.
How long does space closure last?
The space closure phase in braces can last from 4 to 8 months. Specifically, the time to close the space can be determined based on the following factors:
- Age: Age plays a significant role in orthodontic treatment, particularly in how quickly teeth can move within the jawbone. As you age, your jawbone becomes denser and stronger, which can make tooth movement more challenging. This increased bone density means that the process of shifting teeth into their desired positions may take longer for older patients compared to younger individuals, whose bones are generally more malleable. As a result, orthodontic treatment in adults may require more time and may involve additional techniques to achieve the same results that might be more easily accomplished in younger patients.
- Tooth extraction and space closure mechanisms: The method used to close gaps left by tooth extractions also significantly impacts the duration of orthodontic treatment. One common method is the loop pulling mechanism, which often results in faster space closure compared to the use of springs. Springs, while effective, can create friction as they slide along the archwire, which slows down the movement of the teeth. The loop mechanism, on the other hand, reduces this friction, allowing for more efficient and quicker tooth movement. The choice of mechanism is determined by the orthodontist based on the specific needs of the patient, but understanding the differences can help manage expectations regarding treatment time.
- Quality of orthodontic appliances: The type and quality of orthodontic appliances used during treatment also play a crucial role in how quickly space closure occurs. High-quality appliances, including brackets, wires, and other components, are designed to apply precise and consistent forces to the teeth, promoting more efficient movement. These advanced appliances can reduce treatment time by ensuring that the forces applied are optimized for quick and effective space closure. Conversely, lower-quality or poorly fitted appliances may prolong treatment by causing uneven or insufficient tooth movement.
- Position and characteristics of the teeth: The position and characteristics of the teeth that need to be moved also influence the overall treatment time. For example, teeth with long, deep roots, such as canines, can be more challenging to move. Canines are often more firmly anchored in the jawbone, which means they require more time and effort to shift into the correct position compared to teeth with shorter or shallower roots. Additionally, the initial alignment and spacing of these teeth can affect how quickly the space can be closed. Teeth that are already significantly out of alignment or that require substantial movement to close gaps may take longer to move into their desired positions.
Methods to close the space in braces
- Using brackets and archwires: Brackets and archwires are the most common method. The archwire is tightened onto the brackets and used to pull the teeth closer together. This process helps to adjust the position of the teeth and bring them into the desired shape.
- Using springs: Springs are attached to the archwire and apply force to push or pull the teeth into the desired position. This method is often used to adjust the distance between teeth and improve their alignment.
- Minivis: Minivis is a small screw that is inserted into the jawbone as a fulcrum. They help move teeth without affecting other teeth, especially in cases where detailed and precise tooth position adjustment is required.
- Intermaxillary elastics: Intermaxillary elastics are used to pull teeth closer together, especially effective in moving difficult teeth. This method is often applied to adjust the teeth and improve their alignment effectively.
Each method of using orthodontic appliances has its advantages and is suitable for each specific case of the patient. The dentist will choose and combine these methods to ensure effective treatment and bring optimal results for each patient.
Some notes during the space closing process
To reduce discomfort when closing the space during braces and help the process go more smoothly, patients need to pay attention to the following:
Pain reduction
In the first days of the space closing process when braces, patients may feel tooth sensitivity or pain. People can apply some of the following measures:
– Rinse your mouth with warm salt water: Rinse your mouth in the morning and evening to help reduce pain.
– Hot/cold compresses: Apply hot or cold compresses to the painful area to relieve pain immediately.
– Use pain relievers: If the pain is too severe to affect your daily activities, consult your dentist for pain relievers.
Proper oral care
– Oral hygiene: Ensure regular oral hygiene to avoid problems such as periodontitis, tooth decay, gingivitis. Use a toothbrush with a small brush head and soft bristles.
– Use supporting tools: Consider using dental floss, water flossers, and mouthwash to clean your teeth more effectively.
A reasonable diet
– Limit tough, hard foods: Avoid eating foods that can cause braces to fall off and affect the time it takes for the teeth to close. In addition, chewing and swallowing these foods can also make you feel more pain.
– Ensure nutrition: Eat a balanced and nutritious diet to support the treatment process.
Re-examine on schedule
This helps the doctor control the treatment process and avoid problems such as misaligned teeth or other complications.
The article shares some basic knowledge about “closing spaces” in braces. Hopefully Bally Dental has provided readers with useful information, helping you gain more knowledge about braces.
If you have any questions about “What is space closure in braces?”, you can contact Bally Dental’s 24/7 hotline to receive free advice directly from the dentists of the dental clinic. Thank you for reading to the end of the article!
