These are the most common type of orthodontic fix brace. Most patients require the use of fixed orthodontic appliances (‘train tracks’) to have really straight teeth, and achieve the best possible improvement of their smile. Small precisely designed buttons called brackets are bonded to each tooth. Sometimes rings called bands are also fitted around the molar teeth. The brackets are then connected to each other using a thin wire, called an archwire. The wire is held in place with small elastic rings, or with very thin wires called ligatures. The wires are adjusted at regular intervals to straighten the teeth and correct the bite.
You can choose either “metal” or “clear” ceramic brackets which blend in with the natural colour of your teeth, making them less visible. Please note we can not provide esthetic bracket under the NHS.
Your speech remains unaffected with fixed braces because there is no plastic in the roof of the mouth. As the appliance cannot be removed, it acts full-time, and so it is very effective.Fixed braces are very good at achieving fine detail, and making the smile look really perfect!
Eating and caring for your braces
You will need to watch your diet very carefully while wearing braces to avoid damage to your teeth and gums. Remember, your braces are expensive, precise appliances for a specific purpose so please take good care of them. Breaking your brace may prolong your treatment, and may require you to make additional visits to us.
The best way of avoiding damage to your brace is to simply be careful what you eat and how hard you bite.
Avoid HARD (carrots, crusty breads, chips, corns etc.) STICKY (toffies, chocolate bars etc.) and CHEWY (chewing gum, Jelly Baby, Haribo) foods and fizzy drinks and excessive amounts of fruit juices. Apples or crusty bread can still be eaten, but do not bite into them just cut them up into small pieces. If you are prone to chewing pens or fingernails you need to stop as this can also damage your brace.
If we see marks appearing on your teeth we may have to remove your brace even if the treatment is not complete.
If you take part in contact sports such as rugby, hockey or martial arts you should protect your teeth and your brace with a special orthodontic mouthguard.
Folowing treatment you will need to wear retainer braces to help keep your teeth in their new positions. This is a vital part of your treatment.
Latest News
