In Treatment

There are many types of brace, but the most common are:

FIXED BRACES. These are "glued" to the front surfaces of your teeth and are the best type of brace in most situations. There are usually 2 appointments, a week apart, to get started. Then review appointments are made every 6-8 weeks for adjustments. Teeth only move slowly and most treatments take on average 12-18 months. There is very little you need to do to the brace other than keeping it clean and avoiding breaking it.
On average most people break the brace a couple of times during treatment and generally it won't affect treatment too much - so don't worry if it happens - it is not an emergency. As long as it isn't hurting it can usually be left until your next routine appointment. Of course if it is giving problems then telephone us and we will arrange to see you sooner.
When finished the braces are removed and any glue cleaned off. Moulds are then taken to get retainers made to hold your teeth straight. The retainers may be needed long-term.

REMOVABLE BRACES. These are usually little "clip in" plates. Sometimes just one, sometimes two - an upper and lower. To get started we will arrange to see you to take moulds of your teeth. These then go to our lab, where the braces are custom made to fit. A week or two later they are ready to fit. Initially you will find them quite big and bulky, but most people adapt over a few weeks. The important things with removable braces are to actually wear them - usually day and night; to keep them clean; and to keep them safe- particularly at school mealtimes.
Most treatments with removable braces last a few months.

Whichever brace type, you will be given full instructions at the time of fitting.