Braces

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Dentists use braces to straighten or move the position of teeth in the mouth. This is orthodontic treatment, a term which means "the outside of the teeth" when translated. Orthodontic treatment is usually best carried out on children, but it may be necessary to wait until the correct number of teeth have grown- also, it is becoming much more common for adults to undergo orthodontic procedures.

Why do I need Braces?

Braces are used to straighten teeth, in cases where the patient's teeth are misaligned. This treatment is necessary for cosmetic reasons, since teeth which are out of position can look unattractive, but there are practical reasons for the treatment too. Prominent teeth (ones which stick out slightly) are more prone to damage, and are also harder to clean correctly. In some cases, the patient may also not be able to bite properly. Misalignment of this nature can cause jaw or joint problems and possibly headaches- if the position is corrected using braces, this strain is reduced.

Alternatives to Braces

In some cases, simple treatment can be carried out using a removable plate rather than a fixed brace. This is a device with small wires and springs which exert gentle pressure on the teeth to realign them. Plates can be removed and cleaned. Your dentist or orthodontist will be able to advise you of which form of brace is the best treatment. However, it is worth noting that there can be alternatives to the traditional brace (the large, metallic object sadly associated with teasing by children). Plastic and ceramic braces can be used (generally for adults), though these are not usually available through the NHS.

In some cases "invisible braces" will be available- these are clear plastic aligners or moulds, which the patient wears for 22-23 hours a day. Each patient is given several differently shaped sets, and they change them every two weeks. They are easily removed for eating and cleaning teeth, and are nearly invisible. However, these can only be supplied to patients with full adult teeth.

What is involved in fitting Braces?

This will depend on the type of braces required, and treatment time will vary greatly. However, the initial consultation could involve x-rays and plaster casts of the teeth so that the dentist can advise on the best next step. If a fixed brace is required, brackets are fitted to the teeth after first applying a weak acid paste- this is known as an acid etch, and makes the brackets fit better. The brackets are then "bonded" to the teeth using a safe glue. Dentists can safely remove brackets when the treatment is compelte.

After the Braces are fitted

There may be some initial discomfort while the mouth adapts to the braces- if this is severe, dentists may be able to modify the device to increase comfort. Braces need to be worn for anything from a few months up to two years, and adjustments will usually have to be made to the device every four to six weeks.
It is very important that teeth are cleaned thoroughly while braces are worn- braces can trap food and cause an increase in plaque build up.

Cost of Braces

In the UK you can either have NHS dental treatment or go for Private Dental treatment. According to our Whatprice figures Braces cost £194 through the NHS and an average of £854 if you go private.