Braces
All types of braces for all sorts of smiles
We deliver a full range of orthodontic techniques to help correct an array of problems. We routinely assess children to see if they require any corrective orthodontic treatment, as well as offering more discreet solutions for adults
Fixed Braces
This is the traditional way to precisely and predictably realign teeth. These braces feature fixed metal or clear brackets with metal wires which move teeth. They can be fitted to the upper and lower teeth, and treatment usually lasts between 12-24 months.
What is the treatment process?
Step One
We take x-rays, clinical photographs and models of your teeth, which we use to plan your treatment. We keep you fully involved in the planning process.
Step Two
We plan your treatment according to your clinical requirements and personal preferences. Sometimes we need our laboratory to manufacture customised components.
Step Three
The brackets are bonded to your teeth and the wire attached using coloured or clear elastic modules, so it can apply forces to move your teeth.
Step Four
When your active treatment is completed, you will need to retain the position of your teeth. Evidence shows that lifelong retention is required to maintain the final result.
What are the plus points?
- precise and predictable movement of your teeth
- a relatively cost-effective option to align teeth
- can be customised with coloured elastics
Damon Fixed Braces
We are the only dental practice in the area to offer the Damon Brace system – an innovative way to swiftly and efficiently correct misaligned teeth. This system improves facial aesthetics as well as aligning your teeth, and you don’t need to be seen as often as you would if you were wearing traditional fixed braces.
Damon Braces are fitted in a similar way to conventional fixed braces but, as there are no elastic ties, they are known as ‘self-litigating’. This means they can realign teeth without the need for frequent adjustments, thanks to a special sliding mechanism which allows the shape-memory wire to move naturally with the teeth.
What is the treatment process?
Step One
You will have a thorough examination and consultation, so we can check Damon Braces will be right for you. The usual orthodontic records will be taken.
Step Two
We plan your treatment according to your clinical requirements and personal preferences. Sometimes we need our laboratory to manufacture customised components.
Step Three
When ready, we glue the unobtrusive brackets to your teeth and attach the wires. The brackets can be metal or clear.
Step Four
When your active treatment is completed you will need to retain the position of your teeth. Evidence shows that lifelong retention is required to maintain the final result.
What are the plus points?
- less friction and lower forces, which minimises damage to the teeth
- more gentle due to lighter forces and small brackets
- a clear bracket option makes them much less noticeable
- easier to clean due to the lack of elastic modules
- may reduce the need for extractions
- fewer adjustments required
Six Month Smiles
This clever solution to crooked teeth is particularly fast-acting because it only focuses on those teeth that show when you smile. It also offers a more subtle option as it has clear brackets and tooth coloured wires.
Despite its speedy action, Six Month Smiles actually uses gentle forces, concentrating on how teeth will look, rather than how they fit together.
What is the treatment process?
Step One
After working out if this adult-friendly system will work for you, we will fix the custom-made brackets firmly in place.
Step Two
We then attach the wire that will pull your teeth neatly into position. The system is designed to work quickly but may not fully correct your bite.
Step Three
After your brace has been fitted, you will need to have adjustments every few weeks to ensure your teeth move correctly.
Step Four
When your active treatment is completed you will need to retain the position of your teeth. Evidence shows that lifelong retention is required to maintain the final result.
What are the plus points?
- discreet looking clear brackets and wires
- fewer adjustments required
Invisalign
Invisalign® aligners offer an almost invisible way to straighten teeth, offering a more attractive alternative to fixed braces. They are custom-made from a clear comfortable material and gradually move teeth to an improved position.
These aligners are completely removable and can be taken out briefly for eating, cleaning and special occasions. However, for the quickest, most successful results, you will need to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours each day.
What is the treatment process?
Step One
We take pictures of your teeth and create a personalised 3D animated plan. This allows you to see how your teeth will move during treatment and what they will look like after treatment.
Step Two
A series of aligners, each one very slightly different, is created just for you. You will need to wear each aligner in the series for around two weeks.
Step Three
You will need to wear the aligners on a strict regime and may require tooth adjustments at periodic intervals. The whole treatment process should take 10-15 months.
Step Four
When your active treatment is completed, you will need to retain the position of your teeth. Evidence shows that lifelong retention is required to maintain the final result.
What are the plus points?
- discreet
- comfortable
- you can eat whatever you choose
- teeth can be cleaned as normal
What else do I need to know?
Fixed braces can be tricky to keep clean as food debris can get stuck on the brackets. Make sure you brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day and preferably after each snack or meal. It is important not to eat or drink sugary foods between meals.
After any kind of orthodontic treatment, you will need to wear a suitable retainer to keep your teeth neatly in line and stop them returning to their previous, misaligned position. You will be provided with a consent document that explains the risks and benefits.