Braces are a type of orthodontic appliance that will reposition the teeth, gently placing pressure on them so they gradually move. Braces can be fixed or removable, depending on the problems requiring correction. The use of removable braces is becoming more common, particularly with the introduction of nearly invisible aligners such as Invisalign, but sometimes fixed braces can provide the best and most predictable results.
What are Fixed Braces?
Fixed braces consist of brackets that are fixed onto the teeth and which are attached to wires and bands. The braces are adjusted and tightened at regular intervals to continue placing pressure on the teeth. Most brackets are fixed onto the front surfaces of teeth but are much less visible than they used to be as they can often be tooth coloured or clear. Fixed braces can move teeth extremely precisely and may be more suitable for correcting more complex orthodontic problems.
What are Removable Braces?
Removable braces can consist of clear plastic aligners or they may have an acrylic base that supports wires which will gradually reposition the teeth. They are very good for correcting a range of different orthodontic problems, and can be removed for eating and for brushing and flossing. There is no need to avoid crunchy, sticky or hard foods that could damage fixed braces.
Will I Need to Wear a Retainer After Treatment?
Most people will need to wear a retainer once their braces are removed as this will prevent the teeth from moving back to their original positions. This can be removable and worn for a certain number of hours each day, or it can be permanently bonded onto the back surfaces of the teeth so it is virtually invisible. Retainers need to be worn for most of the time following treatment, but will need to be used less frequently as the teeth become accustomed to their new positions.
Make an appointment online or call us on (03) 9887 4539 in Wantirna South, on (03) 9886 7551 in Glen Waverley and on (03) 8794 9777 in Narre Warren.
Our practices are located at 3 Rezes St, Wantirna South VIC 3152, 228 Springvale Rd, Glen Waverley VIC 3150 and 5/2-8 Victor Cres, Narre Warren VIC 3805.
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