Braces
Braces are fixed appliances based on brackets and wires that are used to straighten crooked teeth and align the bite.
The goals of orthodontic treatment are to create a straight stunning smile, achieve a balanced bite and improve dental health. Braces, whether placed on the outside or inside surfaces, are the best at achieving all these goals with accuracy and efficiency. There are many options available, and modern fixed appliance systems have become much more comfortable and less intrusive to wear.
Many people choose treatment with braces to enhance their smile and appearance, but treatment also contributes to dental health. Poorly aligned teeth can be difficult to clean, which may lead to tooth decay and gum disease in the long-term. An imbalanced bite may also contribute to speech and chewing difficulties and excessive wear to certain teeth. Treatment with braces addresses these problems before they become severe.
To find out more about the different types of braces below, or to reserve your appointment with one of our orthodontists, please contact our practice.
Metal Braces
If you are seeking the most affordable option of braces, consider our conventional metal brackets. This is the most commonly used option of fixed appliances.
Metal braces comprise of precisely designed brackets, an arch wire and elastic "O-rings". Brackets are the components that are bonded to the front surface of each tooth. Brackets today are smaller and smoother. The arch wire is a single wire that is held against each of the brackets with small elastic O-rings and provides the force to move the teeth.
Clear Braces
If you want to minimise the appearance of your braces, consider ceramic clear braces. These are fast becoming a popular choice amongst our younger teenage patients.
Ceramic braces are as precise, strong and comfortable as metal braces. The brackets are made from ceramic rather than from metal. The ceramic does not discolour during your treatment and blends right in with your teeth.
The appearance of clear ceramic braces blend in perfectly with your teeth and smile.
Hidden Lingual Braces
If you want treatment with braces that are absolutely invisible, consider hidden lingual braces. Most of our mature patients choose this above any other option.
Our orthodontist uses 3M Incognito™ lingual braces. This version is completely customised to your teeth and is very comfortable on the tongue. Your friends and family won’t even know that you are wearing braces!
Braces FAQs
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In almost all cases, yes, as they give the orthodontist the ability to control the movement and position of every tooth in all dimensions. Braces can do everything aligners can do just as well or faster, but aligners cannot do everything that braces can do.
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Modern braces are extremely well-designed to be comfortable, and are completely safe for all sports (even surfing). Ulcers directly caused by braces are rare, and any irritations are easily managed with orthodontic wax.