FAQs

It is sometimes possible to change the way the jaws grow, using orthodontic appliances. These functional appliances use the power of your jaw muscles and can help with certain types of problems to try and achieve or restore the growth of the jaws so that the teeth and facial profile can be improved, these appliances work best during a child’s active growth spurt.

Often, teeth need to be guided more accurately than they can by using a removable appliance. The majority of orthodontic treatment carried out is with fixed appliances as they are more precise and efficient. Fixed appliances have brackets and bands temporarily stuck to the teeth for the duration of treatment. A flexible wire joins all the brackets and allows the teeth to be moved gently and accurately into their position.

It is not possible for the patient to take the appliance out and so it is called a fixed appliance. They can be made of metal or ceramic and can be placed on the front surface or the inside surfaces of the teeth.

Please ask your orthodontist which are best suited for you.

Fixed braces are not always made of metal, ceramic can be used especially for adults. You cannot get these braces on the NHS but they are offered as a private treatment option. The metal braces used at Smile Orthodontics are made of stainless steel and the clear ceramic braces of monocrystalline ceramic. Colours can be added to the braces with the rubber elastics that attach the wire to the braces. Please ask if you want colours on the brace.

Aligners

They are tough, clear plastic ‘aligners’ that are used to straighten teeth. A series of specially designed aligners are made for each patient, using our iTero 3D scanner. Each set is worn for 7-14 days before being replaced with the next one. They are made from clear plastic, so they are nearly invisible. This means that no one needs know you are straightening your teeth.

The aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours a day for the best results. They can be easily removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. Not all cases are suitable for Invisalign treatment and your orthodontist will advise you if you are suitable.

When treatment is finished the teeth need to be held in position. This period is called retention, and the appliances that hold the teeth in place are called retainers. The retainers hold newly straightened teeth in position while the surrounding gum and bone settles. They are then used indefinitely to maintain the position of the teeth. If retainers are not worn then the teeth will move, as all teeth move over time. Retainers can be fixed but we would always recommend a removable retainer whether you have a fixed retainer or not.

Please have a look at the British Orthodontic Society orthodontic retention videos to find out more about retainers and how they are fitted.

Orthodontic appliances usually need adjusting every 8 to 12 weeks. Your orthodontist will tell you how often your appliance will need adjusting. Treatment duration varies for every patient but on average it takes approximately 18 to 24 months.

Even after retention, it is normal for minor tooth movements to happen throughout life, so no permanent guarantee can be given. At Smile Orthodontics we believe that retention should be long term to maintain the desired result.

Your dentist can refer you for NHS orthodontic treatment and advise you if you are likely to qualify for treatment on the NHS. Self-referral is also possible and you can call our practice for an appointment however this will be on a private basis. NHS treatment is available to those under the age of 18 and who also qualify for treatment under the NHS IOTN criteria. Unfortunately not every child is eligible for NHS treatment. Your Orthodontist will inform you if your child qualifies for treatment under the NHS.

Please look at our advice sheets on how to care for your appliances. These can be saved for future use and reference..

It is important to continue to have your teeth checked by your dentist while having orthodontic treatment. You also need to take extra care of your teeth and mouth during treatment.

Clean your teeth carefully every day, including between your teeth. Appliances are delicate and you need to make sure you clean them carefully so that they do not break.

Cut down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks. Avoid ‘snacking’ on foods or drinks containing sugars, such as fizzy drinks. Also, sticky, chewy and hard foods may damage the delicate orthodontic appliances and are best avoided. Clean your teeth after every meal to ensure that no food is stuck in the braces or between your teeth.

Brush your teeth for two minutes each time with a fluoride toothpaste and use a fluoride mouthwash to help protect your teeth. The use of an electric toothbrush or a manual toothbrush is recommended along with interdental brushes to help you clean around the braces and wires. More time will be necessary when brushing to enable you to clean thoroughly and protect your teeth during treatment to avoid any marks or early decay developing on the teeth.