Removable Appliances
Removable appliances are occasionally used to correct simple problems or as the initial step in preparing the teeth for fixed appliances. Generally, they are not used for severe malocclusions as they do not produce accurate tooth movement for these types of cases. For optimal results, patients should wear the removable appliance 24 hours a day, only removing them for cleaning.
Functional Appliances
Functional appliances are used to modify and guide the growth of the jaws. We most often use the Twin Block appliance to help promote proper jaw growth.
Twin Block Appliance
The Twin Block functional appliance is designed to correct jaw positioning, so that the bite is properly aligned. It consists of an upper and lower plate, which work together to pull the lower jaw forward. This appliance is generally used prior to having fixed appliances (braces) applied to the teeth.
To ensure treatment progresses as planned, the appliance should be worn at all times. It should only be removed for cleaning. Patients may experience temporary discomfort and difficulty speaking the first few days of wear. We will provide specific instructions for activating the screw. Patients should follow instructions carefully to ensure effective results are achieved within the least amount of time.
Fixed Appliances
For perfect tooth alignment, fixed appliances are used. They are designed to make extremely precise adjustments to each tooth’s position. With a bracket bonded to each tooth and a wire that runs between each bracket, we are able to accomplish a beautifully, straight smile.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene throughout your orthodontic treatment is extremely important to reduce the possibility of developing tooth decay. If good oral hygiene is not present prior to receiving braces, we will first provide advice about proper oral hygiene techniques before we place the braces.
Generally, fixed appliances are worn approximately two years, but may vary depending on each patient’s case. Following the fixed appliance phase, we will fit retainers for your teeth to maintain the new position of your teeth.
Types of Braces
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Coloured Braces
Coloured elastic loops can be fitted on fixed braces to match your favorite football team or favorite outfit! To see what different colors we have available, view our Band Color Chooser page.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made of translucent (clear) material. They are most popular with adult patients, due to their cosmetic appeal. The only drawback to ceramic brackets are that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits.
Invisalign®
The Invisalign System is a series of clear overlay templates—called aligners—that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth. This system is available to adult patients with certain orthodontic bite problems. Ask us if you are a candidate for the Invisalign system.
For more information, visit www.invisalign.co.uk
Self-Ligating
Self-ligating braces use sliding-door technology that allows the wire to slide back and forth within the bracket.. No elastic or steel ties are used with self-ligating braces. This technology creates less friction and results in greater comfort for the patient. In addition, self-ligating braces often reduce both treatment time and the number of adjustments that are usually performed.