Orthodontic treatment is a popular way to achieve a straighter, healthier smile. But have you ever wondered how it works? The answer lies in the biology of tooth movement. 

The Process of Tooth Movement

Tooth movement occurs when force is applied to a tooth, which causes it to move within the surrounding bone and tissue. This process relies on two key biological factors: the bone remodeling process and the periodontal ligament. The bone remodeling process involves the formation and resorption of bone tissue. When force is applied to a tooth, it creates pressure on one side and tension on the other. This pressure and tension stimulate bone remodeling, causing bone to be resorbed on the side of pressure and new bone to be formed on the side of tension. This process allows the tooth to move through the bone.

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a thin layer of connective tissue that surrounds the tooth and attaches it to the bone. It contains cells called fibroblasts, which are responsible for producing and remodeling the PDL. When force is applied to a tooth, it causes the PDL to compress on the side of pressure and stretch on the side of tension. This compression and stretching stimulate the fibroblasts to remodel the PDL, allowing the tooth to move.

Orthodontic Forces

Orthodontic treatment relies on the application of controlled forces to the teeth to move them into the desired position. Braces and clear aligners exert different types of forces on the teeth. Traditional braces use brackets and wires to apply constant, low-level force to the teeth. This force is adjusted periodically by tightening the wires, allowing for gradual tooth movement over time. Clear aligners, on the other hand, use a series of custom-fitted trays to apply intermittent, controlled force to the teeth. Each set of aligners is worn for a specific period of time before being replaced with the next set in the series, allowing for gradual tooth movement.

Bone and Tissue Response to Orthodontic Treatment

When force is applied to a tooth, it creates tension and compression in the surrounding bone and tissue. This stimulates the bone remodeling process and the fibroblasts in the PDL to remodel the bone and tissue, allowing the tooth to move. As the tooth moves, the PDL on one side of the tooth becomes compressed, while the PDL on the other side becomes stretched. This results in the formation of new bone on the side of tension and resorption of bone on the side of compression.

Orthodontic treatment relies on the science of tooth movement, which involves the bone remodeling process and the periodontal ligament. By applying controlled forces to the teeth, orthodontic treatment stimulates bone and tissue remodeling, allowing the teeth to move into the desired position. Whether you choose traditional braces or clear aligners, the forces applied to your teeth will stimulate biological responses that allow for effective tooth movement. If you are considering orthodontic treatment, consult with an orthodontist to determine which option is best for you.

Are you looking into getting braces? Contact Farley Orthodontics today for a free consultation.