Braces

Braces are the appliances that are attached to the teeth, providing a ‘handle’ with which the orthodontist can use to move the teeth.
These appliances can consist of brackets, molar bands, and wires.

Brackets are the silver or tooth coloured squares attached to the front surface of the teeth.

Molar bands are the silver bands that are around the back teeth.

Wires are placed in the slots of the brackets and bands and provide a gentle force which will encourage movement of the teeth.

The above photographs show the 2 different types of ‘full braces’ that we provide: self ligating and conventional twin brackets. On the left are the more traditional twin brackets. These brackets require small coloured rubber bands that keep the wire engaged in the bracket (called “modules”). Modules are changed at each visit, so a different colour can be used each time. Of course if you don’t wish to have colours, silver modules or clear modules can be used.

Click here to view the procedure

The second type of bracket on the right are self ligating brackets which have a “gate” that encloses the wire. Modules are not required – and if placed is for decoration. Such bracket systems have been reported to lessen the amount of friction which occurs between the bracket slot and the wire, allowing for more rapid tooth movement.

Aesthetic/Ceramic Braces

Both conventional and self ligating bracket systems are produced in stainless steel and ceramic varieties. Aesthetic or “tooth coloured” brackets are generally only placed on the top teeth, with metal braces being placed on the lower teeth.

The above photographs show the tooth coloured or ceramic brackets.
These brackets are for patients who are concerned about the aesthetics
of metal braces.

Lingual Braces

Braces can also be placed in the inside surface of teeth so your treatment can be “invisible”. We provide two types of lingual braces treatment:
Full lingual braces which corrects both the alignment (straightening) and occlusion (bite)

Partial / aesthetic lingual braces which are placed only on the back of the upper and/or lower front teeth and only corrects the alignment of the front teeth.

Click here to view the procedure

Braces Care
When braces are on we place great emphasis on the importance of good oral hygiene and eating habits. it is important that more attention be given to cleaning and flossing when braces are in place to ensure continued dental health so patients must be very thorough and continue their 6 monthly check ups with their general dentist.

Modules

The modules that are used to keep the wire engaged come in many different colours.

You can choose what colours/s you would like before you come for your next visit.