Orthodontics/Braces
One way of improving the appearance of your teeth is by moving them or straightening them using orthodontic appliances or ‘braces’. This can have more benefits than just cosmetic, as it will make them easier to clean and changes the way they bite together. If your teeth stick out or are ‘prominent’ they are more likely to be damaged so it will also help protect these teeth.
You do not need to see a specialist orthodontist as many dentists are now trained in cosmetic orthodontists including several at our practices. You will need to have an initial consultation with one of our dentists to see if they can provide you with treatment, as some of the more severe case will still need to be referred to a specialist.
The two main appliances we provide are fixed or removable. Although, depending on your orthodontic need, your treatment may include aspects of both appliances.
Fixed appliances have brackets and bands temporarily stuck to your teeth. The brackets are usually made from white plastic and a flexible wire, coated white, joins all the brackets together. Clear small elastic bands can also be attached to the brackets to help the teeth move. Using these types of brackets and elastics means that the brace blends in with your teeth so it is not as noticeable as the old style metal braces. You will need to visit the dentist every 2-4 weeks for progress checks and adjustments.
The removable appliances that we use are wafer thin, clear, medical grade plastic positioners that are similar to mouthguards. During treatment, roughly 8 positioners are used for each sequential stage. To start with, the brace will feel tight but after about 2 weeks it will feel loose. This is when you return to your dentist for the next stage positioner. These braces should be removed for eating and drinking fizzy or hot drinks and can be removed if you have a special occasion.
The length of time it takes to get your perfect smile is very individual depending on how much you would like to change. Therefore it can take any time from a few months to 18 months. Your dentist will be able to give you a better idea of how long your treatment will take for your personal need.
Whether you opt for the fixed or removable appliance, it will feel strange and sometimes painful to start with. It is usually only painful immediately after the appliance has been placed or after adjustments, this just means that the brace is working and your teeth are starting to move. It will probably be necessary to have a soft diet for a few days and to cut up food fairly small. If the pain continues longer than a couple of days then your dentist will be able to make some more adjustments to ease your pain. Some parts of the brace may also cause discomfort to your cheeks and lips, especially with a fixed brace. Orthodontic wax is available, which is a clear wax that you place over the part of the brace that is causing the discomfort. You may also find that your speech is affected slightly, pronouncing certain words or lisping. This should only be a problem for a few days as you adapt.
If you have a fixed appliance you must make sure you take extra care of your teeth. You must clean your teeth every day taking care to get in between your teeth where possible. Interdental brushes can help with this. You should also spend extra time cleaning around the brace and along your gums. To clean your teeth you always need to use a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash, which your dentist can recommend for you. You also need to avoid sugary foods and drinks and sticky or hard foods as these can either get stuck in the brace or damage the delicate wires. The fixed brace will not damage your teeth itself but poor cleaning can cause permanent damage. A common problem with teeth that are not cleaned properly when wearing a brace is tooth decalcification. This is when you lose calcium from the surface of your teeth, so when the brace is removed it can leave white spots on the teeth. The importance of thorough brushing and the use of a fluoride mouthwash cannot be expressed enough.
After your treatment has finished, there can be minor tooth movement so it is necessary to wear a retainer so your teeth don’t revert to their original positions. There are several types of retainers from a fixed wire that is attached to the back of your teeth to a plastic mould that you wear overnight. No guarantee can be made about the permanence of orthodontic treatment as it depends on yourself and you using your retainers correctly.
A fixed or bonded wire retainer is a small flexible wire, which is glued to the inside of the teeth. It is not like the brace as it is there only to prevent the teeth from moving and not trying to move them; therefore there will be no pain or discomfort from this. Like the fixed brace, you should take care when cleaning them so no food gets stuck in the wire allowing plaque to form. Again, you should always use a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash. Your retainer should be left in place as, even years later, your teeth may move so you should have this checked when you attend for regular check-ups and may need repairing or replacing at a later date.
A vacuum formed retainer is a thin sheet of plastic, which is moulded to your teeth, which you wear overnight similar to a gum shield. Sometimes it is combined with wire to make it stronger. You will need to wear this every night for as long as you have your teeth to stop your teeth from moving at a later date. Special retainer cleaners are now available to keep it fresh and clean but please check with your dentist if these are ok to use. Do not use toothpaste to clean the retainer as some pastes can damage the plastic. If you lose or damage your retainer, see your dentist as soon as possible so a new one can be made.
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