These days, people are much more self conscious about their appearance than that in the past. In this circumstance, a large number of people from every possible age group want fixing their smiles or aligning bites. But choosing the right option or treatment is not easy. Modern orthodontics has improved significantly offering cutting edge options like clear aligners and invisible braces. Although these modern orthodontic options are viral and trending, conventional fixed braces still remain the gold standard in correcting orthodontic flaws.
In the following sections of this post let us explore fixed braces inside out so that you can take an informed decision easily. Let us first start with a short and clear understanding of fixed braces.
A basic introduction to fixed braces
When orthodontic appliances are concerned, fixed braces hardly require an introduction! The range of appliances consists of metal brackets that are bonded to each tooth. A metal wire runs through each bracket to keep them connected. These braces exert consistent force to facilitate gradual movement or shifting of your teeth into ideal positions over a period of time. This range of appliances, unlike removable aligners, remains fixed to your teeth throughout the course of the treatment and cannot be taken out explain dentists who quote reasonable cost for fixed braces in London.
Hardware components
Now let us look at the components of the hardware to get a clearer idea about the appliance.
- Brackets – these are tiny attachments square in shape and each attachment remains fixed to each tooth.
- Arch wire – this is a metal wire that connects all the brackets.
- Ligatures – these are nothing but elastic bands that hold the arch wire to the brackets.
- Bands – this component is optional and is not categorically used in every case. Bands are nothing but rings of metal that are cemented to the back of your teeth to provide additional support.
Reasons to choose conventional fixed braces over latest orthodontic options
Modern orthodontics offers a range of easy to use, flexible treatment options. But fixed braces still dominate the entire world of orthodontic dentistry. This traditional range of appliances is still the first and foremost preference of dentists when critical orthodontic cases are concerned. Why? Let us try exploring the answer in the following section.
- There is no other range of orthodontic appliances that proves more effective correcting complex issues of malocclusion like overbite, cross bite and under bite, etc.
- Compared to clear aligners, which are a gift from modern orthodontics, fixed appliances deliver faster results.
- Absolutely zero patient compliance on wear time of the braces.
- According to dentists who offer fixed braces near me over the years, these durable appliances hardly offer any chance of getting lost or even breaking.
Ideal candidates for fixed braces
Anyone who suffers from crowded or crooked teeth, misalignment in the jaws, presence of gaps between the teeth, impacted tooth or teeth and bite issues is a suitable candidate to get fixed braces. The bite issues that are included are overbite, cross bite and open bite.
Different types of fixed braces
The types or varieties of fixed orthodontic braces are metal braces, ceramic braces, self ligating braces and lingual braces. Now let us explore each of these varieties in little more details.
Metal braces are the most common as well as pocket friendly option. The set of appliance is made of stainless steel and is unquestionably long lasting and efficient in delivering desired results explain dentists charge reasonable cost for fixed braces in the UK. You can think about personalising the range of hardware with colourful band decoration.
Ceramic braces – these are basically orthodontic brackets that come in the colour of the tooth. Compared to metal braces, ceramic ones are much less noticeable in appearance. However these are costlier and also more prone to breakage and damage compared to metal ones. This range of appliances is a better fit for both teens and adults who prefer discretion in their treatment.
Self ligating braces – The range of orthodontic appliances requires no elastic bands. Rather there are clips on the brackets to hold the wire. These braces offer lesser friction and are easier to adjust.
Lingual braces – As the name suggests, the assortment of dental appliances is placed on the lingual side of the teeth or behind the teeth on side of the tongue. As a result lingual braces remain completely hidden from view and offer completely discreet treatment. According to dentists who offer fixed retainer braces fitting the range of appliances requires special orthodontic skills of a dentist or orthodontist.
Treatment with fixed braces – vital steps
- Step 1 starts with the customary initial consultation. An in depth evaluation of your teeth, jaws and the overall mouth is carried out using dental x-rays, digital photos and other modern technologies. Based on these findings your dentist prepares your unique treatment plan.
- Step 2 involves fitting the braces to your teeth. First the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and prepped. Special adhesive is used to bond the brackets to your teeth. The entire fitting procedure lasts at least one to two hours explain dentists who quote reasonable price for fixed retainers. It involves threading arch wire through the brackets and placing elastics to secure the wire.
- Step 3 involves providing necessary adjustments to your orthodontic appliances from time to time which is done by your dentist or orthodontist. Therefore you visit the practice every 4 to 6 weeks during which your treatment provider assesses the progress of your treatment, tightens your wire and brackets and performs other maintenance works related to your orthodontic hardware. The aim is to ensure your braces system exerts continuous force on your teeth to facilitate their movement.
- Step 4 involves completion of the treatment and your switching to retainers. It is relevant to mention that retainers are crucial to hold your newly aligned teeth into their new position and preventing a relapse.
Usual duration of these treatments
Duration of these treatments varies from case to case depending on factors like age and condition of oral health of a patient, the level of severity involved in a case and other such factors. Experienced dental professionals working at the renowned Dental Clinic Chelsea mention on an average these treatments last anywhere between 18 and 24 months.
Read Also: A brief and useful discussion on orthodontic treatment for adults
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