Fixed orthodontics
Fixed orthodontics is a treatment aimed at moving the teeth using wire and brackets attached to the teeth. This is carried out to improve a patient smile, correct an abnormality in the bite, or to facilitate additional treatment and is the treatment most commonly associated with treating abnormalities in a child’s bite.
Modern fixed orthodontics is much more discrete than in the past and often white wire and brackets can be used to minimise the visibility of it during treatment. Often fixed orthodontics is used to correct more severe abnormalities in the bite as its ability to move teeth is generally considered greater than aligners, however it can also be a more cost effective way to move teeth.
The treatment can take between 6 and 24 months to complete depending on the type of bite but your dentist will be more accurately able to advise on this so feel free to have a look at our FAQ’s below and book in for a consultation.
FAQs
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Usually for the first few weeks you will feel some discomfort from the appliance as your mouth becomes used to it whilst speaking/ eating. However after an adjustment period most patients find they are able to go about their daily routine without any discomfort.
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Usually we recommend avoiding sticky, hard/crunchy and very sugary foods. This is to prevent damage to the components of the brace and prevent food sticky/ causing decay.
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Yes. When your dentist fits your new brace they will go through a modified technique for brushing your teeth to ensure you are able to clean around all the components of your brace. Additionally we may prescribe high fluoride toothpaste and recommend the regular use of a fluoride mouthwash to keep your mouth/ brace clean and prevent any decay.
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Treatment will usually take between 6 - 24 months depending on the case.
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Yes. After your treatment you will be provided with a removable retainer that you will be required to wear nightly and most likely a fixed retainer that sits behind the teeth.