Braces

For anyone undertaking braces treatment, but especially a tween or teen, it can be a big transition and often, a big change to become accustomed to.

Smiling boy with braces

Braces are a very effective orthodontic treatment for children and adults, used to straighten and reposition misaligned teeth.

They correct malocclusions, including underbites, overbites, open bites, deep bites, cross bites, and crooked teeth. In addition to straightening, braces can improve dental health, because they correct crowding which makes it difficult to brush and clean teeth, and can also work to correct gaps in teeth.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common orthodontic treatments on the market and are extremely effective in helping to straighten teeth and correct bad bites.

The hardware we use includes a series of stainless steel brackets, thin metal wires and bands, which can be as subtle or as brightly coloured as you would like.

While metal braces have been used by orthodontists for over 100 years, they have evolved over time to be smaller and more effective.

The sturdy nature of this fixed orthodontic treatment means that they can perform more complex tooth movements, making them the popular choice among orthodontists.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are the same as metal braces, with the only exception being that they’re made out of a tooth-coloured porcelain material instead of stainless steel.

When paired with clear brackets, ceramic braces are virtually invisible, making them a more popular choice among adults and some teenagers, who may be concerned about the appearance of metal braces.

In terms of their effectiveness, ceramic braces function in the same way, and can treat the same complex bite issues as metal braces.

Do braces hurt?

This is different for everybody however, when you first have your orthodontic appliance fitted there may be some discomfort as your body adjusts to the gentle pressure on your teeth. In addition, you may experience some rubbing of the appliance against the inner cheek.

Everybody experiences pain differently, but it should be only minor discomfort that will disappear after a couple of days. Painkillers and orthodontic wax may be used to ease any discomfort until you adjust to your new orthodontic device. Our staff are more than happy to assist patients getting used to their new braces!

How long will I have to wear them for?

This will depend on your particular case as everyone is different. It can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete a full course of treatment. This depends on a number of factors including the types of movements that need to be completed and the type of treatment you have selected. We will give you a better idea of your particular timeline when setting up your treatment plan.

What can I eat?

This is a very common question! With braces you’ll need to avoid very hard and crunchy foods that can break the braces off the teeth – such as whole apples, whole carrots or crusty bread. It doesn’t mean you have to avoid those foods altogether – for example, apples can be sliced and chewed carefully on the back teeth. Immediately following an adjustment or orthodontic appointment, it is best to stick to soft foods such as bananas, pasta or soup if your teeth are feeling a little bit tender.

Foods that braces love

Foods that braces don't love

How do I look after my braces?

Great question and one we have answered here.

Can I continue my hobbies as usual?

No matter what type of orthodontic treatment you have, they shouldn’t get in the way of living your life. Teens who play a musical instrument such as a trumpet or flute may find that it takes a little bit of time to adjust to the new mouth placement with your orthodontic device. Sports are still safe to do, but you will need to ensure you wear a mouthguard at all times in contact sports like football.

If you already own a mouthguard, you will need a new mouthguard fitted to best protect your teeth. We make our own custom fitted mouthguards, or call us on 133 862 to book in to have a mouthguard made especially for you.

Do you have real before and after photos of your patients?

We sure do! Here are just some of our transformed smiles using braces. Check out more HERE.

Grace

Grace's braces transformation Grace's braces transformation

Bec

Bec smiling with braces Bec smiling without braces

Louis

Louis's braces transformation Louis's braces transformation