Conventional Braces

Orthodontics

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Orthodontics is when the teeth are straightened or moved in order to improve the appearance of your smile by correcting the alignment of your teeth and the way you bite together. An incorrect bite can lead to long term dental problems and even jaw and head pain. By straightening the teeth, you also help to prevent tooth decay and gum diseases as straighter teeth are easier to clean.

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Orthodontic braces are either fixed or removable

How does the treatment start?

Your dentist will refer you to a dentist who specialises in braces 'Orthodontist', or you can refer yourself. At the first appointment, the Orthodontist will discuss with you what you would like to achieve from the orthodontic treatment. You will have an oral assessment, x-rays and moulds taken of your teeth.

At the second appointment the orthodontist will outline your treatment plan to discuss all the options available to you. In many cases, permanent teeth need to be taken out to create space in your mouth so that the remaining teeth can be moved. If this is the case, the extractions are carried out by your regular dentist.

How long does the treatment take?

It usually takes between 18-24 months but will vary according to how complex the case is. We will provide you with a time frame at the beginning of the treatment; however breakages of the brace will add time to the treatment.  

Fitting the Braces

Appointment Three

Small plastic bands separators will be placed in between your molar teeth. The bands will stay in place for one week to create a space between the teeth for the permanent molar bands.

At the next appointment the molar bands, brackets and wires will be put in place. You may find that for the first couple of days your teeth may feel tender to bite and your jaw aches; this is because of the pressure from braces. If the discomfort lasts longer than a few days, make an appointment to see your orthodontist. You may find that your brace may also rub against the inside of your lips or cheeks. If this is the case, use the wax which your orthodontist has supplied.

You will now need to see your Orthodontist every six to eight weeks to have the bands and wires changed, tightened or indeed elastics added. If you have had your brace tightened, you may feel a little discomfort later in the day which is a normal.

You still require regular six-month check-ups with your dentist to ensure your gums and teeth are healthy.

Looking after your Braces

You will be able to eat most of the foods you were eating before, but more care will need to be taken not to damage your braces. There are some foods that have to be cut out of your diet whilst you are wearing the appliance.

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• Toffees.

• Chewy sweets, like Mars bars or starburst for example.

• Hard foods, like crusty bread and apples.
   

Also think twice before opening bottles with your teeth, biting pen tops or chewing your finger nails as these can also damage your braces.

After your treatment is complete

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Your braces will be removed and your teeth cleaned and polished to remove any remaining cement. Your treatment is not over as the teeth need to be held in position while the surrounding gum and bone settles. This period is called retention and the appliance that holds the teeth are called retainers, which are either fixed or removable. Depending on the type of retainers, Impressions may to be taken in order for the retainers to be made at the dental laboratory. You will then return a week later to collect your retainers.