Achieve your dream smile with fixed braces: Your guide to orthodontics in Kingston

What are fixed braces and how do they work?

Fixed braces are a classic and incredibly reliable orthodontic treatment designed to gently and gradually move your teeth into their ideal positions. Unlike removable aligners, fixed braces are securely attached to your teeth for the entire duration of your treatment, ensuring continuous and consistent pressure.

The system consists of three main components:

  • Brackets: These are small, square-shaped attachments, often made from metal or a clear, tooth-coloured material, that are bonded to the front surface of each tooth.
  • Archwire: A thin, metal wire runs through the brackets. This wire is the primary force provider, applying gentle pressure to guide your teeth.
  • Ligatures/Elastics: Small rubber bands or fine wires hold the archwire securely in the bracket slots. These can be clear, tooth-coloured, or even fun, colourful options!

Over time, your orthodontist will periodically adjust the archwire, subtly increasing the pressure and guiding your teeth closer to their desired alignment. This consistent, controlled force is what makes fixed braces so effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues.

Book now!
Achieve your dream smile with fixed braces: Your guide to orthodontics in Kingston

Beyond metal: Exploring your fixed brace options

When you think of braces and orthodontics, traditional metal braces might be the first thing that comes to mind. While highly effective, modern orthodontics offers more discreet alternatives, especially for those concerned about aesthetics:

  • Traditional metal braces: These are the most common and robust type of fixed braces. Made from high-grade stainless steel, they are incredibly durable and efficient at correcting even complex alignment problems. Advances in design have made them smaller and more comfortable than ever before.
  • Clear fixed braces (Ceramic braces): For those seeking a less noticeable option, clear fixed braces are an excellent choice. The brackets are made from a translucent or tooth-coloured ceramic material, blending in with your natural teeth. While slightly more delicate than metal braces, they offer a significant aesthetic advantage, making them a popular choice for adults and older teenagers seeking braces in Kingston.

During your consultation, your orthodontist will discuss which type of fixed brace is most suitable for your specific needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences.

Achieve your dream smile with fixed braces: Your guide to orthodontics in Kingston

What conditions can fixed braces treat?

Fixed braces are incredibly versatile and can effectively correct a broad spectrum of orthodontic issues, including:

  • Crowding: When there isn’t enough space for all your teeth to align properly, causing them to overlap or twist.
  • Spacing: Gaps between teeth, which can be a result of missing teeth or simply too much space in the jaw.
  • Overbite: Where the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth.
  • Underbite: When the lower front teeth protrude past the upper front teeth.
  • Crossbite: When some upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth.
  • Open Bite: When the front upper and lower teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed.
  • Protruding Teeth: Front teeth that stick out, which can affect appearance and be more prone to injury.

Regardless of the complexity, fixed braces provide the precise control needed to move teeth reliably into their correct positions, resulting in a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Book now!
Achieve your dream smile with fixed braces: Your guide to orthodontics in Kingston

The journey with fixed braces: What to expect

Starting your orthodontic journey with fixed braces is an exciting step! Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

  1. Initial consultation: This is your first and most important step. During this appointment, your orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, jaw, and bite. They may take X-rays, photos, and digital scans to create a precise diagnosis. This is your opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and explore all your treatment options, including braces in Kingston.
  2. Treatment planning: Based on the examination, a customised treatment plan will be developed. This plan will outline the estimated duration of your treatment, the type of braces recommended, and the expected results.
  3. Brace placement: The process of bonding the brackets to your teeth is painless and typically takes one to two hours. The archwire will then be threaded through the brackets and secured.
  4. Regular adjustments: You’ll have periodic appointments (usually every 4-8 weeks) for your orthodontist to check your progress, make adjustments to the archwire, and ensure your teeth are moving as planned.
  5. Oral hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial with fixed braces. Your orthodontist will provide detailed instructions on how to brush and floss around your braces effectively. Special brushes and techniques will become your best friends!
  6. Dietary considerations: You’ll need to avoid certain foods that can damage your braces, such as sticky sweets, hard nuts, and crunchy snacks.
  7. Retention: Once your teeth are in their desired positions, your fixed braces will be removed. This is a big day! To ensure your newly straightened smile stays put, you’ll be fitted with a retainer, which can be fixed or removable, to wear as instructed by your orthodontist.
Achieve your dream smile with fixed braces: Your guide to orthodontics in Kingston

Why choose fixed braces for your smile transformation?

Fixed braces offer numerous advantages for achieving a fantastic smile:

  • Exceptional precision: They provide unparalleled control over individual tooth movement, making them highly effective for even complex cases.
  • Consistent results: Because they are continuously working, fixed braces ensure a steady and predictable movement of teeth.
  • Reliability: Fixed braces have been a tried and tested orthodontic solution for decades, with a proven track record of successful outcomes.
  • Suitable for all ages: While often associated with teenagers, fixed braces are a great option for adults too, as long as your teeth and gums are healthy.

If you’re ready to explore the possibilities of a straighter, healthier smile, taking the first step with a consultation is key. Our experienced team at Pearl Dental Clinic specialises in orthodontics in Kingston and can provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your orthodontic journey. Don’t wait to achieve the confident smile you deserve!

Ready to transform your smile? Book your consultation today to discuss your options for braces in Kingston!

Book now!

Call us today on 020 8547 9997

Whatever you need, our friendly team is looking forward to hearing from you.

Simply get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.


Find us on Google maps

Get directions

Send our team an email

On submitting the form you consent to Pearl Dental Clinic collecting your personal data. For more information please read our privacy policy.