What are dental braces?
Brackets and wires apply controlled forces to move teeth over time. Treatment may include additional appliances or elastics. Planning looks at how both arches meet, rather than only straightening the front teeth.
Types and treatment choices
Metal and tooth-coloured ceramic brackets are among the fixed appliance options described on the original site. Clear aligners are another approach for suitable cases. Your clinician can explain current availability, advantages, limitations and costs before you decide.
Your treatment journey
An examination and appropriate records come first. After planning, braces are fitted and adjusted at scheduled reviews. The total time varies with the starting position and treatment needs. Retention follows active treatment to help maintain alignment.
Living with braces
Clean carefully around brackets and between teeth. Follow advice about hard or sticky foods and attend adjustments. Use elastics only as prescribed. Contact the clinic about a loose bracket, broken wire or discomfort that does not settle.
YOUR QUESTIONS, EXPLAINED
Before your visit.
Is there an age limit?
The decision depends on oral health and individual needs. Adults can discuss orthodontic options as well as younger patients.
Will I need a retainer?
A retention plan is normally needed after teeth have moved. Your clinician will explain the appliance and wear schedule.
What happens at my consultation?
Bring your medical history, current medicines and any previous dental records. The clinician examines your mouth and recommends tests or imaging when needed. You can discuss the proposed care, alternatives, timing, costs and follow-up before making a decision.
Care in focus.
Treatment imagery from our original website. Illustrations and examples do not predict an individual result.
Make an informed choice.
Use this guide to prepare questions for a dental consultation. Your diagnosis, treatment suitability, number of visits and estimate depend on an individual examination. Tell the team about previous treatment, medical conditions and any concerns about comfort.
Further reading: American Dental Association · American Association of Endodontists
EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS