What are braces?

Braces are a form of orthodontic dentistry, that strives to straighten and therefore realign the teeth within the mouth. Although many individuals may simply think of traditional metal braces when ‘orthodontics’ comes to mind, there are now a wide array of modern orthodontic options within the field of dentistry, such as Invisalign, lingual braces, and more discreet forms of fixed braces.

How do traditional metal braces work?

Despite a recent surge in alternative orthodontics, the results of metal braces are undeniable. Traditional braces have been on the dental scene for many years, and continue to produce excellent results for happy patients at many dental clinics. As well as metal braces fixing overcrowding, they can also be used to treat many complex dental cases.

Traditional metal braces use metal brackets which are adhered to the surface of the teeth using a special dental glue and metal wires, to apply pressure on the teeth to readjust into a desirable position. Aside from metal braces resolving crookedness of the teeth, they can also completely readjust the position of the jaw, resulting in a completely new smile.

Why choose braces in Milton Keynes?

Many individuals may be looking towards forms of cosmetic dentistry such as veneers to deal with the gaps in their teeth, however alternative forms of dentistry to hide dental malformations can be destructive to the teeth. Braces, when cleaned correctly, cause minimal or even zero functional or cosmetic damage to the teeth, resulting in an easier path to a straighter smile!

Are braces right for me?

Patients who may be considering braces, may not just be young adults or children, but can be of all ages. Many patients believe that braces are only available for the younger generation, however with modern dentistry many adults may look towards orthodontics to realign their teeth. Braces may be suitable for patients who are suffering from overcrowding in the mouth, crookedness of the teeth, or an overbite (front protrusion of the teeth). Apart from teeth readjustment, many forms of braces can also be used to adjust the position of a patient’s jaw.

Are there different types of braces?

Yes! Within modern orthodontics there are now more discreet options available, for many patients. Clear aligners, the most well known brand providers of which are probably Invisalign, are growing in popularity due to their invisible appearance, however there are many more subtle braces options available.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces may be appropriate for patients who wish for straighter teeth, without treatment showing. Lingual braces use a metal wire which is fixed behind the teeth, ensuring they are invisible to onlookers. Aside from their subtlety, lingual braces also ensure maximum comfort within the mouth, causing minimal or no speech impairment, and low abrasion of the gums.

An alternative from of fixed braces

Traditional metal braces allow dentists to have three dimensional control over the patient’s teeth, metal wires and brackets ensure patients receive fast and effective results, however there is a subtle fixed alternative. Fixed braces now offer a slimline and subtle wire, which produces the same effective orthodontic results. Patients can say goodbye to ‘train tracks’ and hello to small and translucent brackets, blending in with the natural surrounding teeth.