Orthodontics have come a long way, and with the help of the latest technological advances, the field is more efficient and provides a much higher level of precision than ever before. That includes the development of new and innovative types of Buccal Tubes that offer orthodontic patients a lot of benefits.
What are Buccal Tubes and how do they work?
Buccal tubes are small metal attachments placed on the molars in braces, which helps to connect to the archwire attaching the wire to the brackets. They come in a variety of thickness, shapes, and sizes. Buccal tubes provide an anchor point for archwires, and the wires exert orthodontic forces on them that move the teeth in the desired direction. This technique works by correcting misaligned teeth, jaw disorders, or to improve aesthetics.
Types of Buccal Tubes
Buccal tubes come in different sizes, shapes, and styles and are made of metals such as stainless steel, titanium, and cobalt-chromium. While traditional Buccal Tubes are the most commonly used, advanced technology has made way for different types of Buccal Tubes that cater to specific needs. Many orthodontists offer their patients one of these four different types of Buccal Tubes:
1. Roth Buccal Tube: This is a popular choice of Buccal Tubes worldwide, preferred specifically for its mechanical accuracy. Roth Buccal Tubes have a triangular shape that creates a low profile and minimizes the tube's discomfort, making them more comfortable.
2. MBT Buccal Tube: The MBT Buccal Tube uses a specialized prescription that helps in achieving efficient tooth movement and reduces the need for multiple wire bends.
3. Self-Ligating Buccal Tube: Self-Ligating Buccal Tubes use doors that are triggered to close automatically with the use of one of a few mechanisms to create two friction-free channels. These doors clamp down on the archwire, making these types of Buccal Tubes the most advanced and convenient type.
4. Mini Buccal Tubes: Mini Buccal Tubes are a smaller version of traditional Buccal tubes. They are lightweight, have a lower profile, and take up less space in the patient's mouth.
Benefits of Buccal Tubes
Buccal Tubes are essential components of the orthodontic system, which offers a lot of benefits to the patient. They include:
1. Effective tooth movement: Buccal tubes serve as an anchor point for arch wires, and the wires exert orthodontic forces on them, moving the teeth in the desired direction.
2. Better alignment of teeth: Buccal tubes help to guide the teeth into the correct positions, improving their alignment, and making it easier to achieve a perfect smile.
3. Precision and accuracy: With technological advancements, orthodontic treatments are more precise and accurate than ever before. Buccal tubes are no exception since they use effective orthodontic forces to shift teeth into a better position.
4. Comfort: With advancements in technology, more comfortable options are available, such as self-ligating and mini Buccal Tubes, making the orthodontic experience less painful than before.
Conclusion
As Orthodontics continues to evolve, Buccal Tubes have advanced and become an essential component of the orthodontic treatment plan. They offer a lot of benefits to the patient, including effective tooth movement, better alignment of teeth, precision and accuracy, and increased comfort. The type of Buccal Tube an orthodontist might use will depend on a patient's specific needs, and discussing these with the dentist will help make the best and most informed choice possible. If you are considering orthodontic treatment, make sure to speak to your dentist to discuss how Buccal Tubes can help you achieve the perfect smile.