Fixed Orthodontic Braces

Fixed dental braces improve the appearance of overbites and protruding or crowded smiles. Brackets are glued to your teeth, and wires are put through them to slowly move your teeth into the desired position. Your orthodontist will regularly tighten the wires during appointments as part of the process. 

Cosmetic braces are a lightweight and discreet option which can produce the same results but appear more discreet than standard orthodontic fixed appliances.

Are Fixed Braces Right for You?

Braces aren’t for everyone, and your dentist will be able to tell you whether it’s a good option for you.

Common Issues Treated with Fixed Braces 

If your teeth are overcrowded, crooked, need straightening, or are protruding, then you may benefit from fixed dental braces. They can also fix other issues, such as overbites, by making sure your teeth meet evenly when you bite together.

Ideal Candidates for Fixed Orthodontics 

If a child needs fixed braces, then around age 12 or 13 is the best time to get them.

Adults can still benefit from orthodontic treatment, and it is becoming an ever more common treatment modality to help people improve the appearance of their smile. 

Fixed Braces vs. Removable Braces and Invisalign 

Fixed dental braces are most likely to be recommended for more severe orthodontic problems. Invisalign treatment is usually the option for milder issues. However, this isn’t always the case, and you should speak to your dentist, who can recommend the best choice.

Some people prefer fixed braces because they like that they can’t be removed for the duration of treatment. Many people forget to put removable braces back in, which can disrupt the success of treatment. 

Maintaining and Caring for Fixed Braces 

Maintaining your oral health can stop food from getting trapped in your braces and prevent further problems occurring.  

Daily Cleaning and Oral Hygiene Tips 

Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly. If you don’t, then bacteria can build up and cause issues like tooth decay. 

Foods and Habits to Avoid 

Sugary food and drinks should be avoided as much as possible. Food can easily get stuck in your braces, and this can cause more plaque than usual to form on your teeth. Also avoid hard and sticky foods where possible as these may damage your fixed braces.  

Managing Discomfort or Repairs 

Fixed dental braces exert pressure onto your teeth to move them into the correct position. Sometimes this can cause discomfort, particularly after you first get them and after adjustment appointments. To alleviate some of this pain, taking painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can be useful. If you’re unsure if the pain is normal or not, speak to your orthodontist and they’ll be able to tell you. If you’re feeling discomfort because your braces are broken and need repairs, visit your orthodontist who will be able to fix them. Never try and fix broken braces yourself.  

How Long Does Fixed Braces Treatment Take? 

If you have braces to fix dental issues, it will usually take anywhere between one to three years to complete treatment. This depends on different factors like how severe your dental problems are. Cosmetic teeth straightening treatment typically takes less then a year. 

Cost of Fixed Orthodontic Braces 

If your child is under 18 and the dentist thinks that fixed dental braces are the right option for them, they’ll be able to access them for free on the NHS. Orthodontic treatment isn’t usually available for adults on the NHS, but may be approved if needed for health reasons. The NHS provides fixed metal braces only, so if you’d prefer clear or plastic systems, you’ll have to get them privately.  

Cosmetic braces can’t be provided on the NHS for free and are more appropriate for cosmetic reasons rather than deeper dental issues.  

Straighten Your Smile with Fixed Braces at Rodericks Dental Partners

Across our UK practices, we use high-quality treatments which are personalised to care for our patients. Each practice has a team of experienced and friendly dentists who will support you throughout your braces journey. Whether you want fixed metal braces or clear fixed braces, our team are happy to do everything they can to help.  

Whether you’re a private or an NHS patient, our dentists will help you feel comfortable and at ease when with us. At our practices, we have a range of pricing plans to choose from to help you be more flexible. When coming to us for fixed dental braces, you can be assured you’re in safe hands.