Quick Straight Teeth Video

Will my mouth be sore in between visits?

Your mouth is very sensitive to change and it will take you a few days to get used to wearing your brace. At first, your teeth may feel uncomfortable because of the pressure the brace puts on them. It may also feel uncomfortable and tight against your teeth after it has been adjusted. Painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help. Some parts of the brace may also cause discomfort to your gums and lips, causing sore spots. Your dental team or orthodontist can give you a clear wax to put on the part of the brace that is causing discomfort. However, if after a few days any part of your brace is causing continual soreness, you should go back to your dental team or orthodontist.

How many visits will it take?

Orthodontic braces usually need adjusting every 4 to 6 weeks. Your treating dentist or the orthodontist will tell you how often your brace will need adjusting.

How long will it take?

The length of treatment depends on how severe the problem is, and it may take anything from a few months to two-and-a-half years. Most people can be treated in one to two years.

Is there anything I should avoid?

Nail biting and chewing your pen or pencil can damage or break your brace.

What happens when the teeth are in the right position?

When treatment is finished the teeth need to be held in position for a time. This is called the ‘retention' period, and the appliances that hold the teeth in place are called retainers.

The retainers hold newly straightened teeth in position while the surrounding gum and bone settles. The retainers can be removable or fixed, depending on the original problem.

Can orthodontics damage my teeth?

Your teeth can be damaged if you don't look after them properly during treatment. The braces themselves will not cause damage, but poor cleaning and too many sugary foods and drinks can cause permanent damage to your teeth. Brackets, wires and braces can trap food and cause more plaque than usual to build up. So you need to clean your teeth and appliance very thoroughly.

Is orthodontic work permanent?

Even after retention, it is normal for minor tooth movements to happen throughout life. So no permanent guarantee can be given. However, it is unusual for teeth to alter enough to need more treatment.

Why should I look after my mouth when I have a brace?

It is very important that you take the time and effort needed to keep your teeth and braces clean. This will help you avoid problems such as tooth decay, inflamed gums, and 'tooth decalcification'. Decalcification is when you lose the calcium from the surface of your teeth, and this may leave white spots on your teeth after the brace is removed. It is also important to keep having your usual dental check-ups with your regular dental team while you are having orthodontic treatment. This is to make sure that your teeth and mouth stay healthy.

How do I care for my brace and teeth?

It is important to keep having your teeth checked by your dental team while you are having orthodontic treatment. You also need to take extra care of your teeth and mouth:

1. Clean your teeth carefully every day, including between your teeth where you can. Braces are delicate and you need to make sure you clean them carefully so that they do not break. Your dental team will be able to show you the special techniques to use depending on the appliance you are wearing.

2. Cut down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks. Avoid snacks and drinks containing sugars, and fizzy drinks. Also, sticky and hard foods may damage your brace.

3. Brush your teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day. Use a mouthwash if you need to. Your dental team may recommend a stronger fluoride toothpaste or perhaps a fluoride gel/mouthrinse, for you to use.

Find out more and contact us for a consultation today on 0126 852 0555.