Small brackets are fixed onto each tooth and are linked by a thin wire, which is held in place by elastic rings. The wire is tightened over time to straighten teeth and correct the position of the jaw.
Fixed braces help make fine corrections easy to undertake. As there’s no plate in the roof of your mouth, there’ll be no adverse effect on your speech or eating.
Suitability of fixed braces
During your first appointment with Better Smiles, we’ll go through all of your treatment options with you and decide whether fixed braces are the best choice for your desired result. We believe you’re never too old to wear fixed braces; we have patients from 8 to 80 years old who want a better smile.
Treatment benefits of fixed braces
Having straighter teeth will mean that they’ll be easier to clean. Flossing, brushing and removing plaque will become easier. You’ll find that your general oral hygiene improves drastically and you’ll lower the risk of developing gum disease.
Length of treatment for fixed braces
Length of fixed braces treatment depends on the complexity of changes needed. As an indication, the most simple cases take 6 – 9 months and the most complex can take over 2 years.
The wires will need to be adjusted every 4 to 12 weeks (depending on the brace type), so you’ll need to return to Better Smiles regularly to have them altered.
After the braces are removed, clear plastic retainers will have to be worn to ensure that your teeth remain in the desired position. These will need to be worn full-time to begin with, but will be reduced as your teeth stabilise, until you are wearing them for just a few hours each month.
Fixed brace treatment experience
You shouldn’t experience any real pain with your fixed braces. However, you may find that there’ll be slight discomfort when the brace is being fitted or adjustments are being undertaken. This won’t last long and over-the-counter painkillers will help reduce any pain you may experience.
Fixed braces – achieving the best results
To make the most of your treatment, it is vital that you keep your appointments and carefully follow your orthodontist’s advice. Maintaining exceptional oral hygiene during and after your treatment will help to guarantee the best results.
Looking after your fixed brace
Braces are precision devices. To avoid damage or breaking the brace, it is best to avoid hard, sticky or sweet food and drink.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential to ensure that you remove any trapped food particles in your brace to reduce any risk of gum disease.
To find out more about fixed braces, contact Better Smiles today.