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Fixed braces, often known as ‘train tracks’, are fitted to the teeth with a special adhesive, and cannot be removed by the patient. These braces enable us to move your teeth very accurately and achieve excellent results There are many different types; here at Malvern Orthodontics we use several different prescriptions, choosing the best one for each patient according to the type of problem.
Fixes braces can be made either of stainless steel, and look silver in colour, or can be made of a ceramic or plastic material giving them a tooth coloured appearance. Due to the material costs involved, the tooth coloured braces cannot be offered as an NHS option.
Will it be painful?
It is likely to be sore for about 3 - 5 days each time the brace is adjusted. If necessary, painkillers such as the ones you would normally take for a headache may help (please read the instructions on the packet). The brace may rub your lips or cheeks; you can obtain some wax to help with this.
Can I remove the brace?
The brace is fixed to the teeth for the whole of your treatment. You should not try to remove it, as you may damage your teeth and the treatment will not work. At the end of treatment the brace can easily be removed by your orthodontist and this causes only very mild discomfort.
Can I eat normally?
You should be able to eat normally but some modifications to your diet will be necessary in order to care for your brace and teeth. In order to prevent damage to both, you should:
- Avoid eating toffees, boiled sweets, chewing gum, chocolate bars, etc.
- Avoid drinking fizzy drinks (including diet drinks) and excessive amounts of fruit juice.
- Avoid eating hard or sticky foods which might damage the brace such as crunchy apples, crusty bread, etc.
- Avoid biting your nails or chewing pens / pencils etc.
What about tooth brushing?
In order to avoid causing damage to your teeth and/or gums, it is important that your brace and teeth are kept clean. It is advisable to clean your teeth after each meal. Pay particular attention to brush where the gums meet the teeth. Brushing may take a little longer when you have a fixed brace but it is certainly worth the effort. A daily fluoride mouth rinse should also be used last thing at night to further protect the teeth. Failure to keep your teeth and brace clean may lead to permanent scarring of your teeth as can be seen in the photograph.
 If you are unable to keep your teeth clean during orthodontic treatment it may be necessary to terminate treatment so as to reduce the risk of damage to your teeth and gums.
How long will treatment take?
Treatment usually takes 12 - 24 months but will vary according to the individual case. Failed and cancelled appointments or repeated breakages of the brace will add to the overall treatment time.
Will I need to wear anything in addition to the fixed brace?
It may be necessary for you at some stage during the treatment, to wear headgear and/or elastics. Headgear is usually worn in the evenings and at night. Elastics are worn inside the mouth, usually all the time.
Will I need to wear another brace once my treatment has finished?
Once the active phase of your treatment has been finished, it will be necessary to wear a retaining brace. This may be removable or it may be fixed behind your front teeth. The length of time this has to be worn can vary. Your orthodontist will be able to advise you on this.
How often will I need an appointment?
You will need regular appointments during treatment for the brace to be adjusted. On average we will need to see you every 6-8 weeks depending on what type of brace you are wearing and also at which stage of treatment you are in.
Do I still need to see my regular dentist?
It is important that you continue to see your dentist for regular checkups throughout your orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will still need to monitor the health of your mouth and teeth.
What if I play contact sports?
If you are involved in contact sports it does not mean that you cannot have brace treatment. However, it is recommended you wear a mouth guard. Wearing a mouth guard should also be considered for riding a bicycle, roller-skating, or skateboarding. You will be advised about this.
What if I play a musical instrument?
If you play a wind instrument, particularly the flute or a brass instrument, then a fixed brace may make it more difficult. However a keen player will usually be sufficiently motivated to overcome these difficulties. You will need to discuss this with your music teacher.
What do I do if my brace breaks?
Phone us for an appointment as soon as is reasonably possible. Do not wait for your next routine appointment as the breakage may slow your treatment, or may result in damage to your teeth. If you repeatedly break your brace, your treatment may be stopped. |
