Braces consist of brackets that are attached to each tooth surface. Each bracket is connected by a thin wire that will push the teeth in the required direction. In order for the wire to remain firmly attached to the bracket, a ligature is needed or what is commonly referred to as a rubber stirrup. There are two types of rubber stirrups, namely o-rings and power chain stirrups.
What are power chain braces?
Power chain braces are rows of ligatures or rubber stirrups that are connected to each other so that they look like chains running across the surface of the teeth. Power chains are usually made of the same rubber material as the ligatures but in some cases, braces power chains can be made of metal coils.
Usually, in braces treatment, you will see that the rubber used is an o-ring type or an individual type that is installed one by one on each tooth. In the power chain stirrup, the rubber is shaped like a chain that is not separated from one tooth to another.
The power chain stirrup treatment can be used as a support for ordinary ligatures, so don't be surprised if in one oral cavity there are two types of ligatures used.
These two types of ligatures can be used by children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of orthodontic treatment needs.
The purpose of using power chain braces
Power chain braces can be used for several types of treatments with various purposes, such as:
1. Closing gaps in teeth
Power chain braces can be used to treat loose teeth due to natural causes such as genetics or orthodontic treatment.
2. Aligning messy teeth
When worn on the teeth, the power chain stirrup will provide constant pressure, so that over time it can shift the teeth that are in a messy position to where they should be.
3. Even out the tooth spacing
In people with loose and crooked teeth, treatment with power chain braces may be necessary to even out the existing teeth. After the teeth are evenly spaced, then follow-up treatments such as fillings, installation of dental crowns or dental crowns, and dental veneer, can be done.
4. Bite correction
Malocclusion or misalignment of the upper and lower teeth can cause various disorders of the mouth and jaw. Examples of malocclusion, for example, are crooked teeth, oblique bites, and lower front teeth that are more advanced than the upper teeth.
This condition can occur due to habits carried out during childhood, such as thumb sucking, drinking too long using a pacifier, or the habit of sticking out the tongue.
The use of power chain braces can be used to correct the bite to return to normal and make the upper and lower teeth fit together properly when the mouth is closed.
5. Twisting gear
Power chain braces can also be used on gears that rotate or rotate in position. Over time, the use of a power chain can turn the gear into the correct position.
Advantages of using power chain braces
Power chain braces have several advantages that may make them the preferred choice in some cases, such as:
- Puts more pressure on the teeth
Compared to individual rubber braces, power chain braces can put more pressure on the teeth. In some cases, this type of ligature is preferred because it is considered to shorten the duration of a shorter braces treatment.
- Easy to apply
Power chain braces are also easier to apply, thus saving maintenance time. Applying one-on-one o-ring ligatures to each bracket generally takes more time than installing a power chain.
- Double benefit
Power chain braces can be used to perform many movements, including closing gaps, redistributing space, and reducing tooth rotation. All of these movements are important to get your teeth into a good finishing position
Disadvantages of using power chain braces
Despite having various advantages, power chain braces also have some disadvantages. Overall, the risks of using power chain braces are similar to the risks of using braces in general, namely:
- Making users more susceptible to gum disease due to the buildup of dental plaque due to food trapped around the braces.
- Teeth are more prone to cavities because they are harder to clean, which makes it easier for bacteria to build up.
- Causes shortening of the roots of the teeth as the braces gradually move the teeth. This can cause the teeth to be less stable.
- Teeth can return to their original condition if they are not diligent in using the retainer after the braces are removed.
When using power chain braces, it is very important to keep your teeth clean. Always brush your teeth regularly at least twice a day, after breakfast and before going to bed. Also, clean between the teeth and stirrup with dental floss or dental floss. If the power chain breaks, we recommend that you contact your dentist to make an appointment as soon as possible.
