Orthodontics

Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth.
Most patients require the use of fixed orthodontic appliances to have really straight teeth, and achieve the best possible improvement of their smile. Small precisely designed metal or ceramic buttons called brackets are bonded to each tooth. Modern brackets are quite small, and they cover a relatively smaller area of each tooth, making braces more attractive than they used to be. Sometimes metal rings called bands are also fitted around the back teeth. The brackets are then connected to each other using a thin metal wire, called an archwire. Fitting your fixed braces will not hurt: they are simply glued to your teeth. No injections are required!!! The wires are adjusted at regular intervals to straighten the teeth and correct the bite. For the first 4-5 days after your appliances have been fitted, and for a day or two each time they are adjusted, you may experience some discomfort.

As the appliance cannot be removed, it acts full-time, and so it is very effective. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to a corrected position. Other appliances may be used either before or at the same time as the fixed braces. Examples include changing the relationship of the jaws with a functional appliances or moving the upper teeth back to improve bite with headgear. Jaw surgery may be required to correct jaw malalignment that may exists in adults. Periodontal therapy may also be indicated before, during or after orthodontic treatment to treat the gum and supporting bone.

Once the active phase of your treatment has been finished, it will be necessary to wear a retainer. This may be removable or it may be fixed behind your front teeth. The length of time this has to be worn can vary.

Orthodontic treatment depends on your body's biological response and it can't be hurried. The treatment time typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the growth of the patient's mouth and face and the severity of the problem. Patients grow at different rates and will respond variously to orthodontic treatment, so the time to case completion may differ from the original estimate. Failed and cancelled appointments will add to the overall treatment time.