Fixed Orthodontics

Fixed Orthodontics

At Seaham Smiles, we offer affordable orthodontic treatment for simple to complex crowding, spacing or misaligned teeth.

All from the comfort and convenience of your regular dental surgery.

A fixed brace may be for you if:

• You are unhappy about the size, shape or position of your smile
• Have had orthodontic treatment in the past but your teeth have moved
• You have noticed bunching, crowding or overlapping of your teeth with time and are concerned it is worsening
• You have noticed your teeth are wearing, shortening or chipping at the front

A range of fixed brackets are available, from traditional metal to modern gold or even tooth coloured ceramic brackets for a more discreet look.

We are happy to provide treatment for adults as well as young adults not eligible for NHS orthodontics.

Metal Fixed Braces

Metal fixed braces are efficient and precise. Fixed metal braces at Seaham Smiles consist of brackets which are attached to the teeth during treatment and thin wires to guide your teeth into their new straight position. The glue we use is strong enough to ensure the brackets stay firmly attached, but can easily be removed at the end of treatment. They will not damage your teeth in any way. Most patients opt for silver metal braces, but gold braces offer all of the benefits of a standard metal brace, in a more aesthetic gold finish!

Benefits of metal braces include:

1. Strength – metal braces are stronger than the tooth coloured alternative
2. Comfortable – metal brackets are slim and smooth
3. Accurate – meaning your teeth will move efficiently and quickly

Clear Fixed Braces

Ceramic braces are suitable for adults and teenagers, these braces at Seaham Smiles consist of superior quality small clear, ceramic tooth coloured brackets bonded to the teeth. The brackets are not clearly visible and they are designed with smooth edges to prevent irritation. Ceramic brackets can therefore be both comfortable and more discreet, allowing people to focus on your teeth rather than your brace.

Benefits of clear braces :

1. Clear – tooth coloured brackets and wires are discreet, so they blend in more naturally with your own teeth.
2. Comfortable – ceramic brackets are bulkier than metal brackets, but we use the highest quality systems that are smooth and rounded for optimum comfort.
3. Effective and exclusive – less obvious orthodontic treatment, giving you more confidence to smile during as well as after treatment.

FAQ

Are there any foods I should avoid with a fixed brace?

Be careful not to eat sticky or chewy food, like sweets or chewing gum. These can get stuck in your braces and break the wires. Hard, crunchy foods such as apples and carrots, should be cut up into small pieces and biting down on ice should be avoided altogether.

How long will my treatment take?

Treatment times vary from 3-6 months for simple straightening, to over 24 months for complex cases. Most patients undergoing comprehensive treatment with a fixed brace can expect treatment to be completed in as little as 12-18 months.

Will braces damage my teeth?

Your braces themselves will not damage your teeth, however you will be required to maintain excellent cleaning and limit how often you have sugary and acidic foods to reduce the risk of dental decay.

How often will I need appointments?

Your dentist will normally review and adjust your brace every 6 weeks to ensure that your brace is working effectively to provide your new smile.

If you would like to discuss straightening your teeth give us a call, or contact us to find out more.