Orthodontics: Different Types Of Braces
A closer look at modern dental braces for straightening teeth.
Here at Abbey Road Dental we offer a broad range of general and cosmetic dentistry for our patients, all conveniently available from our friendly and well equipped clinic in St John’s Wood.
One common area of dentistry that many of our patients take advantage of, is orthodontics. This discipline deals with irregularities with the teeth and jaw which can be corrected using orthodontic appliances; the more technical term for dental braces. The appliances are used to push the teeth into the right position to achieve various goals like teeth straightening or bite correction. Some of the changes are functional; others are cosmetic.
If you’re interested in orthodontics you might be interested to know about the wide range of appliances used for corrections. So let’s take a closer look.
Fixed
The term fixed basically means the braces are fixed into the mouth and kept there all the time apart from adjustments and eventual removal. Children or adults with fixed braces will have them for around 1-2 years usually, then the use of a retainer will typically be necessary for a set amount of time each day. The main type of fixed appliances are ceramic, self-ligating and lingual. Ceramic braces use hard ceramic material to create a natural tooth colour rather than a metallic look. Self-ligating appliances use a clip device to hold the wire rather than elastic and lingual devices tend to be fixed to the inside edge of the tooth so they aren’t visible outwardly.
Recently we have also seen fast-acting fixed braces becoming very popular. These act only on the social front six teeth which can be moved fairly quickly and easily. Brand names such as ‘6 Month Smiles’ and ‘Cfast’ may be familiar to you?
The type that is right for you will depend on your individual circumstances.
Removable
With removable braces you can usually choose from conventional appliances or clear aligners. Each brand and system is different and their use depends on the type of problem which needs to be corrected, cosmetic, functional or both. Recent innovation has seen near-invisible braces or aligners come to the fore. These can be used to tackle a wide range of issues and have several advantages such as being very discreet as well as being removable for cleaning and eating.
Retainers
Retainers aren’t orthodontic appliances but they are important in any orthodontic treatment to keep the teeth from falling back into place. Teeth will naturally move as we age, so there will always be the chance for teeth to revert from their straight position following treatment. Some people may be advised to use a retainer short term, others may wish to use them long term to prevent a relapse.
The type of orthodontic treatment suitable for you will vary depending on your individual circumstances. Modern orthodontics offers a wide range of options depending on your age and cosmetic preference. It may be that you have a child who requires a long term fixed brace, or you are an adult who simply wants the ‘social six’ teeth correcting to perfect your smile. If you are interested in orthodontics please speak to our reception team or your dentist next time you pop in and we can refer you to the right person. Alternatively you are welcome to call our NW8 clinic on 02076241603 and one of our friendly team will be pleased to give you more information.