Fixed appliances
A fixed brace is an orthodontic appliance which cannot be removed from the mouth by the patient. Amongst teenagers, fixed braces are commonly known as “train tracks” and they are one of the most effective ways of straightening teeth. They can be used in combination with removable or functional braces and while a fair number of patients benefit from more than one type of brace, most will have fixed braces.
The component of fixed braces which has the greatest variability is the bracket, which comes in various sizes, shapes and colours.
|
|
|
ALigature or module BArchwire CBrackets DElastic Hooks & Rubber Bands EMetal Band (not shown) |
Fixed appliances are the most common type of brace. Fixed braces have great control over tooth movement as they direct teeth in three dimensions.
Each tooth to be aligned has a bracket cemented to enamel surfaces. Flexible wires are placed into slots on the brackets and the teeth are gradually pulled into good alignment.
As teeth move towards the correct position, wires are changed in order to further move the teeth into the desired arrangement. The cement used on the brackets is strong, but it is possible to break brackets off the teeth by eating something hard. Therefore hard foods such as toffees and crusty bread need to be avoided whilst wearing braces.
Most braces can be put on once all baby teeth have gone and the adult teeth have come through. There is no standard length of time in which they will move, everyone’s teeth are different and move at their own rate. However, it is common for fixed brace treatment to take between 18 – 24 months. To speed up treatment it is very important to adjust the brace every five to six weeks or as the orthodontist recommends, so it is important not to miss an appointment as this will increase treatment time.
Metal brackets with colours
|
|
Stainless steel metal brackets are easily recognised and are widely used in the treatment of patients in all age groups. Their robustness and suitability for most cases make them an appliance of choice for most orthodontists. The designers have been making them smaller and decreasing the profile of these metal brackets, sometimes with beneficial results including higher treatment efficiency, decreased friction, decreased appliance breakage (due to increased bond strength) and superior fit or seating. These metal brackets can be customised with coloured ligatures or modules to provide individuality and make them more aesthetically pleasing. |
Gold brackets
|
|
Others might be more attracted by the aesthetic appeal of the Gold appliance systems such as the ‘3M Unitek Victory Series’ 24K gold plated brackets, which can be complimented with gold wires – these provide the patient with an alternative to the traditional stainless steel look. |
Ceramic brackets
|
|
Attractive, translucent or tooth coloured, aesthetic fixed brackets appeal to patients in view of their less obtrusive appearance. These are made from a ceramic material and differ from plastic (polycarbonate) brackets in terms of the superior durability, colour stability, strength and overall performance throughout the treatment. Not all tooth coloured brackets are ceramic, if you are having problems with breakages and discolouration, you most likely have been fitted with an inferior plastic bracket. Fixed braces can be made “totally white” by utilising ceramic brackets, white or tooth coloured arch wires and non-staining ligature wires. This means that your appliance is virtually not visible! |
3M Self Ligating brackets
|
|
These are fixed braces which function without ligatures and modules. These braces are designed to help the teeth move more efficiently and may result in fewer adjustment visits. The absence of modules and ligatures eliminates the hassle of staining. Examples of self-ligating brackets are Damon®, Smartclip, Clarity® SL and Vision LP. |
Radiance bracket
|
|
Every Radiance bracket is a polished jewel, made from single crystal pure grown sapphire, the second hardest mineral known to man. Each crystal is honed and then heat polished into a superbly smooth, incredibly clear, and astoundingly strong bracket. Once bonded, Radiance is nearly invisible on the tooth. |
Advice for fixed appliances
|
|
When you first wear your appliance you may find that your teeth are tender for the first few days. You may take aspirin, paracetamol or similar pain killer, as directed on the packet, if you find it helps. It is also best if you stick to a soft diet and avoid any sticky foods such as chewing gum or toffees. Cut hard food such as pie crust or apples into small pieces, and avoid biting pen tops or finger nails as these can distort the wires or break off brackets, which will delay treatment. Also avoid all fizzy drinks, sweets and sugary snacks during treatment. If you encounter any problems with your appliance contact the surgery immediately rather than wait for your next routine appointment. Emergency clinics are held every day between 0900 and 1400. We recommend that you buy a fixed appliance kit from reception. It includes Gel-Kam, full and travel size interdental brushes, travel toothpaste, disclosing tablets and wax. Patients should brush their teeth, as directed by the hygienist, morning and night, and after every meal or snack. They should use the interdental brushes to clean underneath the wires and sides of brackets and should be discarded when they begin to look worn. Wax should be used to prevent rubbing and chaffing of cheeks and lips, and disclosing tablets should be used twice a week to keep a check on plaque. Gel-Kam should be used nightly, last thing – no eating or drinking afterwards. Please contact us for further information on fixed appliances. |
