If you have had braces before, you have probably heard about power chains. Although they are a common part of the treatment, they can be uncomfortable. Your doctor will give you suggestions to make them more comfortable. You should also keep them clean so that they don’t trap food particles.
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Power chains provide support
While power chains aren’t necessary for everyone, they can help people with misaligned teeth and gaps close quickly. They also help to prevent teeth from shifting back into their previous positions, making them a good option for a variety of situations. They are available in a variety of colors, making them compatible with the color of the rest of your braces. Your orthodontist can help you determine which color would work best for your particular situation.
There are three main types of power chains available. One type has a small space between the rings, while another is long and connected to each tooth. Each type provides different levels of pressure and can target specific areas of the teeth that need more pressure. Power chains are used as a final step in the treatment and are typically changed at each visit.
They hold the archwire to the teeth
Power chains are a type of dental appliance used to move teeth into proper positions. They work alongside the archwire and exert more pressure on the teeth. This allows for the closure of gaps and a smaller overall space between the teeth. They are also effective in closing the space left after a tooth is extracted. Another benefit of power chains is their ease of use. Patients can request a different color chain at each visit.
Archwires are made of metal that’s held in place with brackets. These brackets are typically square and have a slot for the archwire. They may have hooks to attach rubber bands for extra security. The archwire is then threaded through these brackets and moves the teeth into position. The dentist will tighten the archwire at regular visits to prevent the teeth from shifting out of place. Power chains are elastic ligatures that are attached to the archwire.
They can correct the way you bite
Power chains are a common way to correct the way you bite in braces. They work by closing gaps between your teeth. They can also be used to move specific teeth groups. However, the chains should be treated with care. For optimal results, they should be properly cleaned and examined every few days by an orthodontist.
Power chains come in two main shapes, a short and a long chain. The short one connects to each tooth at a distance of 3.5 millimeters, while the long one has a link every third tooth. These chains are also available in several different colors to coordinate with ligatures and brackets. Patients can choose from white, silver, or clear chains. Some chains are more stain-resistant than others, so it’s important to choose the right one for your situation.
They can be uncomfortable
For some people, power chains can be uncomfortable as the last step of braces. They do not hurt much more than normal elastics, but they can be slightly uncomfortable in the beginning. This is normal and the orthodontist will make sure that you are comfortable with the final step of your treatment. If you do experience discomfort, your orthodontist can prescribe over-the-counter medication, soft foods, or a combination of these. The chains can also be uncomfortable since they interfere with the position of the tongue and lips. You will need several appointments to get them adjusted.
You may feel some pain when wearing the power chains, but the pain will subside after a day or two. During the first few days, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers to minimize discomfort. Power chains are typically worn by people between the ages of eight and fourteen.
They require high maintenance
Power chains are a common orthodontic treatment that lasts for several weeks or months. They work by tightening the wire inside the brackets to move the teeth into place. In addition, they can act as a retainer, closing gaps between the teeth and preventing them from reverting. They come in a wide variety of colors and can be worn for up to eight months. Your orthodontist will be able to advise you on which color is best for you.
Power chains can be made of latex or a blend of polymers. They are thin but durable and can stretch as they are pulled. Depending on which type you choose, power chains can retain 80 to 85% of their original strength even after six weeks. Power chains can be used early or late in the treatment of braces, but they tend to come later.