STAINLESS STEEL BRACES:

Stainless steel braces are the traditional “train-track” braces. They consist of brackets and wires and there is a choice of silver or coloured elastics. They allow us to move the teeth and control the bite. These brackets allow treatment to be cost effective, and modern technology means that these braces are smaller and more comfortable than they used to be. American Orthodontics Mini Master Series steel braces are the standard braces used in NHS orthodontic treatment.

CERAMIC BRACES:

Ceramic braces are ideal for patients who want the braces to be less noticeable to others. They consist of ceramic brackets, wires and clear elastics, which blend with the teeth. We use 3M Clarity Advanced brackets that blend with various tooth shades, making the braces hardly noticeable. Ceramic brackets are available privately.

REMOVABLE BRACES:

Removable braces have plastic and metal components and can be removed for cleaning or sports. Some are removed for eating. We commonly use a style of removable brace called a functional brace for treating prominent teeth.

INVISIBLE BRACES (Clear Removable Aligners):

We can offer treatment using Invisalign. This consists of clear, removable aligner braces that are virtually invisible. They can be removed for eating, drinking and cleaning and no-one need know you’re having treatment. The treatment involves the use of series of clear aligners, created with 3D computer imaging. The aligners are changed every 2 to 3 weeks, and gradually move your teeth into their new positions. Clear aligners are available privately.

Some patients benefit from dental extractions as a part of their orthodontic treatment. Extractions can make space where there is crowding and they can also help to bring back protruding teeth. Extractions are only used where needed and the orthodontist will discuss this with you before treatment. The spaces from extractions are closed by the end of your course of orthodontic treatment. The extractions are usually provided by your general dentist, after the orthodontist has written a letter to them.

The braces can also cause some rubbing on the lips and cheeks. Orthodontic wax can help to stop the rubbing.

Your teeth are more vulnerable to problems such as decay during orthodontic treatment. The decay can leave permanent white or brown marks on the teeth. During orthodontic treatment you should avoid sugary foods, and acidic drinks, such as fizzy drinks and fruit juices. You particularly need to avoid snacking on sugary foods between meals. You need to clean your teeth and braces thoroughly using a fluoride toothpaste and different brushes that allow you to clean around the brace. It is important to use a daily fluoride mouthwash as well.

Yes! After braces are removed, retainers are needed to stop the teeth from moving back to how they were before treatment. Teeth can move at any age and the longer you continue to wear your retainers the better. The retainers can be fixed or removable and are provided for you when braces are removed. They need to be worn as exactly as instructed by your orthodontist.

If your brace is rubbing try using some orthodontic wax to cover the part of the brace that is causing the problem. If the problem persists, please contact the practice.

If you are in treatment and have an acute problem with your brace, please telephone the practice. Please leave a message if need be and every effort will be made to see you as soon as possible.

Please note that a broken brace does not constitute an emergency but the practice needs to be informed of the breakage.

NHS fees: As part of emergency treatment, replacement of lost or broken braces or retainers may incur an NHS fee.

For emergency advice after 18:30 on weekdays, and all day on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays, please contact the Dental Out Of Hours Service on: 01392 823682

If you need to cancel or change an appointment, please give at least 24 hours notice. This allows the appointment to be allocated to another patient.