BRACES

Overview

Orthodontics is the science and art of bringing teeth and jaws into a harmonious position with the face. This may improve the appearance, oral health and function.

Why Braces?
People have their teeth straightened for a variety of reasons. These include:

• appearance
• improve chewing function
• improve dental health – crooked teeth are difficult to keep clean

For most people, orthodontic treatment is an elective procedure. It is rare that teeth will be lost if treatment is not started. There are alternative solutions to orthodontic problems.

These are: prosthodontic treatments using tooth veneers, crowns, bridges or dentures; or no treatment at all. The orthodontist will discuss the risks and benefits of each alternative with you.

When is the Best Time to do Braces?
This depends on the type of orthodontic problem. For jaw-related cases, treatment generally starts while the child is still growing. This is between the ages of 9 and 11. For mal-aligned teeth not related to jaw problems, treatment can generally be delayed until all the primary teeth (milk teeth) have changed to permanent ones.

There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. Adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment.

What Type of Braces are Available at NDC?

There are many different types of braces, each suited to a particular type of problem. The best type of brace for you will be advised by the Orthodontist depending on your teeth and your personal needs.

Removable braces are used on their own for simple problems in younger patients (usually under age 11) or as part of a plan involving fixed braces. It consists of a plastic plate with wires and clips to hold the brace onto your teeth and is usually fitted to the top teeth.  

Fixed braces are small attachments, called 'brackets', that are attached to the front of each individual tooth with a special adhesive, linked together by orthodontic wires. These attachments can be made of metal or a tooth-coloured material like porcelain (ceramic). Many teenage patients choose vibrant colours to customise their metal braces.  Fixed braces such as Damon or other 'self-ligating' braces incorporate features (innovative ways of holding the wire in place) to help the teeth move more smoothly and so make treatment quicker.

Invisalign Aligners are clear removable braces which gradually straighten teeth when worn all the time. They are virtually unnoticeable and are good for less severe cases.

Lingual braces are fixed braces which are attached to the back of the teeth rather that the front. This means they are truly invisible so you can continue to smile with confidence throughout treatment.  Because lingual braces are not visible they are ideal for adults or older teenagers who are concerned about the appearance of traditional fixed braces. Lingual braces are invisible when the patient smiles.

Invisalign is a technique of straightening teeth using a series of removable aligners, that are practically invisible. These aligners are usually worn full time and removed on eating and brushing. The aligner moves your teeth gradually. After about two weeks, the aligner is changed to a different set.

Your Orthodontist is the best person to recommend the bracing system best suited to your lifestyle and malocclusion.