Crooked, crowded or overlapping teeth are a very common dental problem, and can affect everything from your bite to your speech. For many patients, they’re a source of discomfort in another way, too; causing self-consciousness and issues with self-image.
Luckily, braces are a tried and trusted solution. Through orthodontics, we can correct the alignment of your teeth – safely and predictably. Here’s everything you need to know about getting braces in Bristol.
Do I need braces?
Crooked or overlapping teeth are usually a sign that you’d benefit from braces. Beyond their appearance, misaligned teeth can cause issues with your overall oral health. They may be more difficult to clean, more liable to decay, and (if they protrude) at greater risk of accidental damage. If your bite is affected, you might even notice you’re suffering from pain or headaches, caused by knock-on stress in the temporomandibular joint. For this reason, it’s worth seeking help if you’re concerned about your teeth.
Who is suitable for braces?
We fit braces for both children and adults. In childhood cases, it’s best to be seen sooner, rather than later. Although many parents wait until their child is older, this can result in delays caused by long waiting lists. Our specialist orthodontist, Scott Deacon, is very experienced with young patients and will be able to advise on next steps, including finding the right timing.
We’re also treating increasing numbers of adults, who may have missed out on “teenage era” braces or have simply decided to prioritise their self-confidence later in life. Because braces have evolved so much in recent years, there are now a huge number of options for discreet (and even invisible) braces.
How do braces work?
Traditionally, braces work by applying gentle, continuous pressure to your teeth over a period of time, gradually moving them into the correct position. They’re attached to the teeth using brackets and wires, which your orthodontist will periodically adjust to maintain that steady pressure as your teeth shift. Other options use removable aligners to exert pressure, without the need for wires.
It’s worth knowing that the work doesn’t stop when the braces come off. Once your treatment is complete, you’ll be fitted with a retainer, which holds your teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and tissue settles. Skipping this step is one of the most common reasons teeth gradually drift back over time, so it’s an important part of the process that we’ll talk you through in full.
What are my options?
Braces have changed dramatically in recent decades, although traditional options are still safe and solid. Today, there are many routes to choose from, and the right fit will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
- Fixed metal braces are a dependable solution that’s suitable for everyone. They’re more cost-effective than other pathways, but they’re also more noticeable in your mouth.
- Ceramic braces use tooth-coloured ceramic blocks (rather than stainless steel), alongside white wires and clear ligatures, making them a more discreet alternative to metal braces.
- Lingual braces are completely invisible, fitted to the back of your teeth, rather than the front. They’re a popular choice for adults who want to pursue corrective work while preserving their appearance.
- Invisalign is one of the best-known aligner systems, using clear aligners shaped to your gum line. It’s especially well-suited to less complex cases.
- Clear Smile invisible braces are removable and discreet, showing results more quickly than a fixed metal brace if you wear the aligner every day.
- Inman Aligners are an offshoot of the Clear Smile system, designed to align and straighten your upper and lower front teeth.
How long does it take to see results?
Your overall treatment time will depend on the type of braces you choose and the complexity of your individual case. Fixed metal braces, ceramic braces and lingual braces typically take anywhere from one to three years.
If you opt for a clear aligner system – such as Invisalign, Clear Smile, or the Inman Aligner – treatment times can be considerably shorter, though these tend to work best for mild to moderate cases. Invisalign treatment typically takes between six and eighteen months, while the Inman Aligner is designed primarily for front teeth and can produce results in as little as six to sixteen weeks. The best way to get a realistic picture of your own timeline is to book a consultation with Scott, who will be able to map out a treatment plan tailored specifically to you.
Get started with orthodontics at The Bristol Dental Practice
Whether you’re seeking treatment for yourself or your child, a conversation really is the best place to start. An initial assessment will allow us to talk through your concerns, evaluate any issues, and come up with a suggested plan. Orthodontics is an investment in your future dental health and image, so it’s important that you feel happy and involved in the decision-making process. If you’d like to book something in, we’re happy to receive self-referrals for braces in Bristol.