Dental Braces
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What are dental braces?
Braces are dental appliances commonly used to straighten your teeth. Braces are usually made up of:
- small brackets fixed to your teeth
- wires connecting the brackets
The wires put gentle pressure on your teeth, pulling them into the right position. Braces are fixed, meaning that you can't take them off.
Braces correct problems with:
- crooked teeth or gaps
- jaw or bite alignment
What are the different types of braces?
Traditional metal braces with wires have been used for around 100 years. Metal braces are:
- placed on the front of your teeth
- most cost-effective
- most reliable
Ceramic braces are a more recent alternative. These are a similar colour to your teeth, so they are less noticeable. Ceramic braces are also called 'modern braces'.
Lingual braces are also made of metal but are stuck to the inside surface of your teeth. They are hard to see but are more expensive.
What is a tooth aligner?
Clear aligners are an alternative to traditional braces. Clear aligners are thin plastic trays that are worn over your teeth to straighten them. Aligners are clear but not invisible.
Aligners are custom made for each person. If you get aligners, you will need to wear them all the time, other than when eating and drinking.
Ask your dentist or orthodontist if clear aligners are suitable for you. It may depend on how much correction is needed to straighten your teeth.
What is a retainer?
A retainer is a device that is usually used to help keep your teeth in position after having braces.
If your teeth are only slightly crooked, a retainer may be all that's needed to get them straight.
A permanent retainer is a line of metal that is attached to the back of your teeth to stop them moving.
A temporary retainer does the same thing but can be put in and taken out. It's usually worn only at night.
What are the benefits and risks of dental braces, aligners and retainers?
Using dental braces, aligners or a retainer to straighten your teeth can help with:
- stopping tooth wear from clenching and grinding your teeth
- stopping gum damage
- stopping stress on your jaw joint
- making it easier to keep your teeth clean
- confidence in your appearance
There can be risks from using dental braces, aligners or a retainer such as:
- scratches and mouth ulcers from the braces rubbing
- tooth decay or discolouration due to poor dental hygiene
- gum infection
- your teeth moving again if you don't wear your retainer as advised
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