Fixed Appliances

Fixed Appliances are used to straighten teeth, they are stuck on the teeth - brackets on the front teeth and stainless steel bands on the back teeth. The brackets are attached with adhesive, which is set with a blue light. The process is totally painless.

Special care is necessary with a fixed appliance to ensure success and you do have to change your eating technique. It is advised not to eat sticky toffee or chewing gum, bite into anything hard or large with your front teeth (French bread, pizza etc).

Cosmetic fixed appliances.
These are similar to conventional fixed appliances except the brackets are tooth-coloured rather than stainless steel and are therefore less visible. Most adults undertake fixed appliance treatment using this type of appliance. Tooth-coloured fixed appliances are not available under the National Health Service and are subject to a private contract.

How long will treatment take?
It usually takes 18-24 months but will vary according to how severe the case is. Failed and cancelled appointments or repeated breakages of the brace will add to the overall treatment time.

Will I need to wear anything in addition to the fixed brace?
It may be necessary at some stage during the treatment, to wear elastics. Elastics are worn inside the mouth all the time, including mealtimes and provide the force to straighten the teeth.

Will I need to wear another brace once my treatment has finished?
Once the active phase of your treatment has been finished, it will be necessary to wear a retaining brace. This may be removable or it may be fixed behind your front teeth. The length of time this has to be worn can vary.

How often will I need an appointment?
You will need regular appointments during treatment for the brace to be adjusted, these are normally every six to eight weeks.

Do I still need to see my regular dentist?
Yes. It will be important you still have check-ups with your regular dentist throughout orthodontic treatment so that your oral health can be monitored.

What do I do if I play contact sports?
It is recommended you wear a gumshield. A special gum shield can be provided which fits over the fixed appliance during treatment.

What if I play a musical instrument?
If you play a wind instrument, particularly the flute or a brass instrument, then a fixed brace may make it more difficult. You will need to discuss this when appliance treatment proposals are discussed.

What do I do if my brace breaks?
Ring up for an appointment as soon as is reasonably possible. Do not wait for your next routine appointment as the breakage may slow your treatment, or may result in damage to your teeth. If you repeatedly break your brace treatment may be stopped.

For further information on cosmetic fixed braces, please click here

Dr Richard Skeggs BDS, MFDS RCS, MClinDent, MOrth RCS Specialist in Orthondontics
at the Nottingham Orthodontic Centre