Braces apply constant pressure to slowly correct the alignment of your teeth. As your teeth move into the proper place, your orthodontist will continue to adjust your tooth alignment until it is perfect.
The fixed appliances, which can either be metal or tooth-coloured braces, are suitable for children, teens, and adults. They use a combination of small brackets, thin arch wires, and elastic bands to move teeth gently into the ideal position.
Depending on your individual needs and the complexity of the case, fixed braces treatment can take anywhere from 3 to 24 months.
Before
After
Being fixed to the teeth means minimal compliance issues due to forgetfulness or habit of snacking, or lost or broken appliances, as found with removable appliances.
Clinicians have excellent control of the teeth, so you can be assured that the teeth will be moving.
The appliances are strong, durable and rarely break.
Metal braces are generally cheaper than removable appliances.
Minimal inconvenience from the need to remove removable appliances before eating, brushing or possible hindrance in speech.
As it is difficult to eat, it can help you lose weight.
Can result in mouth ulcers, more so during the initial couple of weeks whilst acclimatising.
It can attract food and plaque deposits, thus compromising oral hygiene and dental health.
Care is needed regarding the type of foods consumed to avoid bracket debonding.
Requires more regular visits to the dentist for adjustments.
Can be less comfortable and slightly more.
Cost from £2,500 up to £4,500.
Braces apply constant pressure to slowly correct the alignment of your teeth. As your teeth move into the proper place, your orthodontist will continue to adjust your tooth alignment until it is perfect.
Traditional metal braces cost between £1,500 and £5,000. There are many factors that impact the total cost of braces.
For some patients, Invisalign® is an excellent alternative. It does cost more to undergo treatment with Invisalign® and not everyone is a good candidate for it. For instance, young teens may not be responsible enough to keep track of and clean the trays.
The length of treatment depends on your progress and the original alignment of your teeth. Treatment lasts between 6 and 24 months in most cases. However, some patients need less while others require up to three years.
In many ways, taking care of your braces is much like your regular oral hygiene routine. You still need to brush and floss, but you will need to take extra time and care around the brackets. It’s also important to regularly attend your scheduled orthodontics appointments so the brackets are replaced and don’t break.
Depending on the type of braces/ aligners, it can take from 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the patient’s needs.
You need to have your permanent, adult teeth to have braces. This is typically around seven years old. Adults can wear braces, too, as there isn’t an age limit.
Your coordinator will set you up on a schedule for follow-up appointments every few weeks. It is important that you attend the appointments so the braces can be appropriately adjusted. Skipping appointments can hurt your progress.
No. Braces do not generally hurt. If you’re experiencing any pain from your braces, you should call your Clinic right away.
You should brush your teeth four times a day. Once after each meal and then again before you go to bed.
Pick up the phone and contact our Clinic on 01332 364 630 or email us at info@bridgedentalclinic.co.uk, and a member of our dedicated Team will be ready to answer your call and get you scheduled in.
