Treatments available
Every orthodontic patient requires an individual assessment appointment after which treatment options will be discussed and explained by the orthodontist. In order to decide what treatment is required for you, your orthodontist will need to carry out an initial full assessment of your teeth which is likely to include x-rays, impressions (moulds of the teeth) and photographs. A tailor made treatment plan is then agreed with you and the next steps can then be taken towards creating your new smile . Treatment can take more than two years so it is important you are happy from the outset with what is recommended. Fixed braces are almost always needed and will require adjustment appointments every 4-8 weeks and patient co-operation is one of the most important factors contributing to successful treatment. Throughout treatment you should continue to see your own dentist for 6 monthly checkups.
Those braces which are used most often are:
A fixed brace
–this is the most common type of brace today, often known as "train tracks". Brackets are glued onto the teeth and linked by wires. Small elastic hoops are often used to hold the wire in position and come in many colours. The wires exert gentle pressure to move the teeth into a new position. Fitting of these braces is not painful but the teeth may be tender for a few days after. The brackets can be fabricated from different materials –metal such as 3M Victory ™ brackets pictured left (standard on NHS treatment) or can be less visible aesthetic tooth coloured brackets pictured right (only available with private treatment).A removable brace
– this is sometimes used for correcting a simple problem, such as moving a single tooth or expanding the dental arch but is commonly used in combination with fixed braces. It has a plastic baseplate with wires and springs attached. Removable braces need to be worn all the time except for cleaning or sport.Functional braces
– these are used to harness the growth of the jaws and reduce the prominence of protruding teeth. There are several designs all of which fit on to both the upper and lower teeth and hold the lower jaw forward. They are mostly removable but should be worn as near to full-time as possible.