Braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments, yet many patients and parents are unsure how they actually work. While braces are often associated with straightening teeth, their real purpose is to guide teeth and jaws into healthier alignment that supports proper function, comfort, and long-term oral health.

At our Fremont office, we regularly help patients from Pleasanton, Livermore, Hayward, and Milpitas understand how orthodontic treatment works and what to expect at each stage of the process.

What Are Braces?

Braces are orthodontic appliances designed to apply gentle, controlled pressure to the teeth and jaws over time. This pressure encourages teeth to move into more functional positions within the jawbone.

If you’re new to orthodontic care, our guide on what orthodontics is explains how braces fit into a broader orthodontic treatment plan.

How Braces Move Teeth

Tooth movement occurs because the jawbone is living tissue that responds to consistent pressure. When braces apply force to a tooth, the bone on one side gradually reshapes while new bone forms on the other side to support the tooth in its new position.

This process happens slowly and safely, allowing teeth to move without damaging the surrounding structures.

The Main Parts of Braces

Braces are made up of several components that work together to guide tooth movement:

Brackets

Brackets are small attachments bonded to each tooth. They serve as anchors that allow the orthodontist to apply precise forces.

Wires

Orthodontic wires connect the brackets and provide the pressure needed to move teeth. As treatment progresses, wires are adjusted to continue guiding alignment.

Elastics or Bands

In some cases, elastic bands are used to help correct bite relationships between the upper and lower jaws.

Step-by-Step: What Happens During Braces Treatment

Understanding the treatment process helps patients feel more comfortable and confident.

Step 1: Orthodontic Evaluation

Treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation that looks at tooth alignment, bite function, jaw development, and airway considerations. This evaluation helps determine whether braces are the right option and when treatment should begin.

Learn more about our treatment philosophy on our orthodontics page.

Step 2: Placement of Braces

Once treatment begins, brackets are placed on the teeth and connected with a wire. The process is typically painless, though patients may feel pressure afterward as the teeth begin to adjust.

Step 3: Gradual Adjustments

Over the course of treatment, braces are adjusted periodically. These adjustments apply new forces that continue guiding teeth and bite alignment.

Step 4: Retention Phase

After braces are removed, retainers help maintain the new alignment. Retention is an important step in ensuring long-term stability.

Braces for Children vs Adults

Braces can be effective at any age, but treatment goals may differ.

Braces for Children

In children, braces may be part of a broader plan that supports jaw growth and airway development. Early orthodontic care can help guide development while the jaws are still growing.

Visit our children page to learn more about pediatric orthodontic care.

Braces for Adults

Adults often seek braces to improve function, comfort, or bite issues that were not addressed earlier. Many adults are surprised to learn that orthodontic treatment can also play a role in supporting breathing and sleep health.

In some cases, orthodontic care may be coordinated with sleep breathing or myofunctional therapy to address functional concerns.

Do Braces Hurt?

Braces do not usually cause pain, but mild soreness or pressure is common after adjustments. This typically subsides within a few days as the mouth adapts.

Most patients find that discomfort decreases significantly as treatment progresses.

How Long Do Braces Take?

Treatment length varies depending on individual needs, but many patients wear braces for 12 to 24 months. Factors such as age, alignment complexity, and consistency with appointments can influence treatment duration.

Serving Patients Across the East Bay

Our Fremont practice regularly serves patients from Pleasanton, Livermore, Hayward, and Milpitas who are seeking orthodontic care that prioritizes function, comfort, and long-term oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do braces straighten teeth?

Braces apply controlled pressure that gradually moves teeth through the jawbone into healthier positions.

Are braces only cosmetic?

No. Braces improve bite function, oral health, and comfort. In many cases, they also support jaw stability and airway health.

Do you see patients from Pleasanton, Livermore, Hayward, and Milpitas?

Yes. Our Fremont office welcomes patients from across the East Bay for orthodontic and airway-focused care.