Orthodontic
Types of Braces We Offer
Clear Braces
As their name suggests, clear braces are almost invisible to the eye. They come in two different types – fixed and removable. Clear bracket-and-wire braces are mounted onto the teeth just like regular braces, whereas removable braces such as Invisalign are customised aligners that fit snugly over your teeth.
Fixed Braces
Fixed Braces are used to correct crooked teeth under the supervision of an Orthodontist. They are individually fixed to the teeth with a special glue and should not be attempted to be removed by the patient. This type of brace is used when the teeth are very crooked.
It is really important that while wearing a fixed brace that every effort is made to avoid damaging the brace, teeth or gums. This will ensure that orthodontic treatment gives the best results in the shortest time possible.
It is not uncommon for a brace to cause some discomfort for a few days after its initial placement and for a similar period after adjustments made during later appointments. If, however, any part of the brace becomes loose or causes significant discomfort the practice should be contacted as soon as possible.
Avoid:
- Sticky foods such as toffees, chewing gum, etc
- Hard foods such as boiled sweets, nuts, etc. Crunchy foods such as apples and carrots should be cut into small pieces
- Fizzy drinks and concentrated fruit juices
- Sweet snacks and drinks, especially between meals
- Also, habits such as biting nails and chewing pen tops should be stopped
If you play contact sports its ideal to have a mouth guard fitted. Damage to the brace can cause discomfort and will slow don't the treatment process.
Removable Braces
A removable brace clicks on to your teeth and can be removed when necessary. Removable braces are commonly used on the upper teeth to widen the arch or correct an anterior cross bite. Removable braces may be used alone or in combination with fixed braces to treat more complex problems.
Your Orthodontist will determine the best type of brace for you and talk to you about how long you will need to wear your brace.
Retainers
At the end of your Orthodontic treatment you will be given retainers to hold your teeth in their new positions. This is because it takes time for the bone and tissues around your teeth to stabilise. So wearing retainers is really important so that the teeth do not move back to their old positions.
Retainers are clear, removable and designed to keep your teeth straight. Retainers are usually worn full time for the first six months.
Your orthodontist will talk to you about how often and how long you will need to wear your retainers. When it is not in your mouth your retainer should be in its protective box. Do not click the brace in and out with your tongue as this can cause the brace to break. If the retainer can't be worn because it is being repaired your teeth may not remain straight.
Functional Appliances
A functional appliance is a specially designed removable brace that uses your facial and jaw muscles to improve the way the teeth bite together.
The most commonly used appliance is called a Twin Block appliance. Impressions of your teeth will be taken and a wax bite sent to the laboratory to make your appliance unique to you.
Your Orthodontist will let you know how long you will need to wear your function appliance.