Metal Mouth Message Board

I am been undergoing my treatment for 7 months and since day one I have been using teflon ties that were tied around each individual bracket. When I went in for an adjustment this week the assistant used one piece of wire through the entire upper jaw. Would this result in a different movement?

I have one long piece of wire twisted throughout my upper brackets. My understanding of the reason for this is to keep wide spaces from opening up between my teeth. I am glad they did this because some spaces did indeed open up, but nothing too bad.

My bottom teeth have the wires around each individual bracket - I think this is just to ensure that the brackets stay closed so the archwire can do its job.

Hope this helps

Individual teeth were likely tied to help obtain the correct rotational and tip alignment when more flexible wires were used during the early stages of treatment.

After teeth have been aligned and spaces closed, the entire arch can be ligated together without any difference with respect to individual ties. There are situations where you may want the entire arch consolidated, particularly if you are wearing elastics.

Speak to your doctor if you have any concerns. Good luck!