Metal braces
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into the bracket slots and elastic bands are placed over the wire to hold it in place against the metal brackets. Your orthodontist will gradually tighten the wire and use larger diameter wires to create a gentle pressure that moves the teeth into alignment.
You will visit the orthodontist every 6 – 8 weeks during the treatment to assess your progress and adjust the wires. This timescale between appointments can vary depending on the specific tooth movements that are planned at each visit. After your treatment, you will fitted with fixed and removable retainers to maintain the alignment of your teeth.
Fixed metal braces correct common orthodontic issues, from slight overbites to cosmetic and more severe dental issues like deep overbites and severe overcrowding.
Treatment with fixed metal braces costs less than other braces, such as lingual and ceramic braces. Treatment at private practices usually starts from £3,800, but the exact cost depends on the individual’s needs.
Traditional braces may be available for free on the national health service for patients below 18 who meet certain criteria. You will given the cost of your treatment during your consultation.
The duration of orthodontic treatment depends on your orthodontic treatment needs. Generally, fixed metal braces treatment takes 1 – 2 years but may last longer for people with severe orthodontic issues. Treatment for minor orthodontic issues can take about 6-9 months. Your orthodontist will provide you with an estimation of how long your treatment will last following your initial consultation.
Braces can feel uncomfortable against the inside of the lips and cheeks after they have been fitted, this is normal and will gradually subside as you get used to the braces. You may experience some discomfort after each tightening session.
Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen and paracetamol can help ease your pain. You may also use pain relief gel to soothe irritated areas inside your mouth and place orthodontic wax on areas of the brace that rubs against inside your mouth.
Plaque and food can get stuck in fixed braces, so an excellent oral hygiene routine is important. If your braces and teeth aren’t clean, this may cause permanent marks on your teeth after the treatment is complete. Ensure you brush your teeth 2-3 times a day and use a fluoride mouthwash once a day at a different time of day to brushing.
Visit your dental hygienist for regular cleaning and your general dentist for your routine check-ups.
Different alternative teeth straightening treatments are available. These include;
Ceramic braces are fixed braces but the bracket is made of tooth coloured ceramic rather than metal. This can be combined with tooth-coloured wires which makes them less conspicuous than metal braces.
Iconix braces are also fixed braces, the brackets are metal with a light gold coating that provides an aesthetic appearance to the brace. These champagne coloured braces are more subtle than metal braces.
Invisalign braces are a series of clear, removable aligners that move the teeth without requiring fixed braces. Tooth coloured composite attachments are bonded to the surface of some teeth to provide anchor points and movement. You can remove the clear aligners to eat, drink and clean your teeth.
Lingual braces are a fixed brace that is bonded to the back of the teeth. Wires are placed against the lingual brackets and are held in place with elastic ties. They are the ideal brace choice for anyone who wants completely hidden braces.
The orthodontist will examine your teeth and bite to determine if you are suitable for orthodontic treatment and discuss the ideal treatment and brace options for your case. The orthodontist will take radiographs and photographs of your teeth and discuss the possible outcome of your treatment. If you are happy to go ahead with treatment then your orthodontist will then take a 3D scan of your teeth and arrange an appointment to fit the braces followed by appointments every 6 – 8 weeks to tighten and adjust the braces.
You can contact Kingston Orthodontics at [email protected] or 0203 002 2501 to book a consultation with our experienced orthodontists.
Spread the cost of any treatment
We are here to help you achieve the perfect – and affordable – smile so please talk to us about our popular interest-free payment plans. Spread the cost and relax – secure in the knowledge that your treatment will take place on time and on budget.