Fixed Braces in Southend-on-Sea
Highly efficient teeth straightening in Southend-on-Sea
Dreaming of a straighter, more confident smile? Fixed braces are one of the most reliable and effective ways to achieve it! These traditional yet powerful braces have been transforming smiles for years, offering a predictable path to perfectly aligned teeth. Whether you have gaps, overcrowding, or bite issues, modern fixed braces are smaller, more comfortable, and discreet than ever before.
How do fixed braces work to straighten your teeth?
The mechanism behind fixed braces is simple yet brilliant. They consist of three main parts:
- Brackets: Small squares that are bonded directly to the front surface of each tooth.
- Archwire: A thin, flexible wire that runs through the brackets.
- Elastics (or Ligatures): Tiny rubber bands or small wires that hold the archwire into the brackets.
During visits with our orthodontist, we will periodically adjust the archwire. This continuous, gentle pressure is precisely calculated to guide your teeth into their ideal position over time. It’s a steady, reliable process that ensures great, lasting results.
The benefits of choosing fixed braces
When considering your options for straightening your smile, fixed braces offer some significant advantages:
- Exceptional results: They are highly effective at correcting all types of orthodontic issues, even severe ones, providing predictable and comprehensive straightening.
- Always working: Since they are fixed to your teeth, there’s no need to remember to put them in or take them out. They are straightening your smile 24/7.
- Cost-effective: Often, fixed braces can be a more budget-friendly option compared to some of the newer, more complex alignment systems.
- Colour customisation: we can often provide you with a choice of coloured elastic bands at your appointment.
Why choose Park House Dental Health for your braces?
- Highly experienced, friendly, and knowledgeable team
- Patient-focused care, giving you an exceptional service
- Investment in state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your comfort throughout orthodontic treatment
- Personalised treatment plans to suit your needs and fit in with your lifestyle
Book your orthodontic consultation here
Testimonials
Choosing the right orthodontist is a big decision. You want someone who is skilled, gentle, and understands your needs. Here at Park House Dental Health, we’re committed to providing exceptional dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. But don’t just take our word for it, see what our patients have to say about their experiences.
What to expect during your fixed braces treatment?
Starting your journey with fixed braces is an exciting step! Here’s a brief look at what your treatment will involve:
Step 1 – Consultation: Book in a consultation with us and we will provide a personalised plan for you to achieve your straighter smile.
Step 2 – The fitting: Your orthodontist will bond the brackets to your teeth and place the archwire. This process is comfortable and takes about an hour or two.
Step 3 – Initial adjustment: You may experience some mild soreness or discomfort for a few days as your teeth get used to the new pressure. Over-the-counter pain relief usually manages this easily.
Step 4 – Regular check-ups: You’ll visit our Southend-on-Sea orthodontist every 4-8 weeks. At these appointments, the wire will be adjusted, and elastics will be changed to keep the treatment progressing.
Step 5 – Care and cleaning: You’ll need to brush carefully around your braces and avoid very hard or sticky foods. We will give you all the best tips and tools for maintaining excellent oral hygiene.
Step 6 – The reveal! Once your treatment is complete, the fixed braces will be removed, and you’ll be able to smile with confidence! You will also be fitted with a retainer to ensure your beautiful, straight smile lasts a lifetime!
Are you ready to find out if fixed braces are the right option for you?
Book your orthodontic consultation
Spread the cost with our finance options
We understand that orthodontic care can seem like an investment, which is why we are pleased to offer flexible payment options to help spread the cost.
FAQs
Do fixed braces hurt?
It’s normal to feel some discomfort or soreness for the first few days after your fixed braces are fitted, and also for a day or two after your regular adjustment appointments. This isn’t usually a sharp pain, but more of a dull ache or tenderness as your teeth begin to move. You can typically manage this easily with over-the-counter pain relievers and a soft-food diet until the tenderness subsides.
How long does treatment with fixed braces take?
The length of treatment with fixed braces varies widely because every smile is unique! On average, most patients wear their braces for about 18 to 24 months. However, simple cases might be completed in as little as 6-12 months, while very complex alignment issues could take up to 36 months. We’ll give you a much more accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs after your initial consultation, but remember that wearing your retainers after treatment is just as important for maintaining your amazing new smile!
What foods should I avoid with fixed braces?
To keep your fixed braces working efficiently and to prevent damage, there are a few types of foods you should avoid. The main culprits are hard, crunchy, and sticky foods. Think things like toffees, hard sweets, popcorn, and biting into very hard apples or crusty bread. These can break a bracket or bend a wire, leading to unplanned emergency appointments. Don’t worry, you can still enjoy most foods; you’ll just need to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces!
How do I clean my teeth with fixed braces?
Cleaning your teeth with fixed braces requires a little extra care and attention, but it’s essential for a healthy result! You’ll need to brush carefully after every meal, ensuring you clean above and below the brackets and wires to remove all food debris and plaque. We’ll show you how to use special tools like interdental brushes and floss threaders to clean in those tricky spaces between the wires. Good dental hygiene is key to preventing stains and keeping your teeth healthy throughout your treatment.
Can I still play sports with fixed braces?
Yes, having fixed braces shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your favourite sports. However, if you play a contact sport like rugby, football, or boxing, it is essential that you wear a custom-fitted mouthguard. A mouthguard will protect your lips, cheeks, and braces from damage in the event of some impact. Just let us know which sports you play, and we can help arrange the right protective gear for you to keep your smile safe while you stay active!
