Orthodontic treatmentsOrthodontics
There are many different types of orthodontic treatment, depending on the exact problem with your teeth or jaw.
The first stage of treatment is to assess the state of your teeth and how they're likely to develop.
This usually involves taking X-rays, making plaster models, and taking photographs of your teeth.
Orthodontic appliances
Orthodontic treatment uses appliances to correct the position of the teeth.
The four main types are:
- fixed braces – a non-removable brace made up of brackets that are glued to each tooth and linked with wires
- removable braces – usually plastic plates that cover the roof of the mouth and clip on to some teeth; they can only carry out very limited tooth movements
- functional appliances – a pair of removable plastic braces that are joined together or designed to interact together, and fit on to the upper and lower teeth
- headgear – this isn't an orthodontic appliance itself, but can be used with other appliances and is usually worn at night
In more severe cases, treatment may involve fixed braces and surgery to move the jaw. This treatment is carried out in hospitals.
These treatments are outlined in more detail below. Further information can be found on the British Orthodontic Society (BOS)website.
Fixed braces
Fixed braces are the most common type of orthodontic appliance. They can be used when a number of teeth need to be corrected, or when the treatment needs to be precise to prevent problems in the future.
You'll be able to eat normally while wearing a fixed appliance. However, you should avoid certain foods and drinks, such as toffee, hard sweets and fizzy drinks, as they can damage the appliance and your teeth.
If you're using a fixed appliance and you play a contact sport such as rugby, you should wear a gum shield to protect both your mouth and the appliance.
Fixed braces are usually made out of metal, so will be noticeable on the front of your teeth.
Many private orthodontists now offer ceramic or clear plastic braces, although they're usually more expensive. Their use also depends on the particular problem and tooth position.
Removable braces
Removable braces can be used to correct minor problems, or as part of fixed brace treatment. They can sometimes be used to discourage children from sucking their thumb.
These braces should only be taken out of the mouth for cleaning or as a precaution during certain activities, such as cycling or playing a wind instrument. Your orthodontist can advise you about this.
Functional appliances
Functional appliances can be used to treat problems with the position of the upper jaw and teeth, and the lower jaw and teeth.
Most people need to wear them all the time. It's very important to follow your orthodontist's instructions about how and when to wear the appliance. If it's not worn correctly, the treatment won't work.
It may be necessary to remove your functional appliance for cleaning and while you're eating.
Headgear
Headgear is used to correct the position of the back teeth or to keep them in position while the front teeth are being treated.
Most people only need to wear headgear for a few hours during the evening or when they're sleeping. You won't be able to eat or drink while wearing headgear.
Other treatments
There are other types of braces available privately, such as aligners, or invisible or lingual braces that fit on the back of the teeth.
You'll need to talk to your orthodontist to see whether they can be used for your problem. The cost of these braces is usually higher.
Retainers
Retainers are used near the end of a course of orthodontic treatment. They hold straightened teeth in place while the surrounding gum and bone adjusts to their new position, and can either be removable or fixed.
Under the NHS, your orthodontist is responsible for your care for 12 months after normal treatment ends. After this period, you'll have to pay privately for continuing care, retreatment, and any replacement or repair of retainers.
It's likely there will be some tooth movement if you stop wearing your retainer. Changes in the position of your teeth can continue throughout life and are part of the normal ageing process.
The only way to have permanently straight teeth is to wear a retainer on a part-time basis for life.
Removing teeth
In rare cases, it may be necessary to remove a tooth to correct the position and appearance of nearby teeth.
Results
You're likely to achieve good results within 18 to 24 months of starting treatment as long as you:
- take good care of your teeth
- wear your appliances as instructed
- follow your orthodontist's dietary advice
- wear your retainer to maintain the results