Metal fixed braces (or ‘train tracks’ as they are sometimes known) are a very effective treatment option to straighten teeth and address a range of orthodontic issues. We use metal fixed braces as the standard type of brace available on the NHS for qualifying patients under 18 years old. They can also be used for patients of any age having private orthodontic treatment.
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Small metal brackets are attached directly to the surface of your teeth and joined together with a flexible metal wire, known as an archwire, which your orthodontist uses to control the movement of your teeth. You will visit the practice to have this wire adjusted every few weeks. The gentle pressure from the archwire will gradually move your teeth into their new straighter position.
Sometimes metal fixed braces can accelerate treatment time, so may be a good option if you are hoping to realign your teeth for a special event such as a wedding or graduation.
During your initial orthodontic consultation, we will examine your teeth, take a 3D scan, photos and orthodontic x-rays. This enables your orthodontist to establish the best treatment option for your needs and to precisely plan your treatment.
Once you are ready to start treatment, we fix the little brackets securely to your teeth and attach the archwire. This is shaped so your teeth will be gradually nudged into line. We explain how you should care for your brace and we will also ask you to watch a short video. This covers all aspects of brace care and maintenance.
Your treatment time will depend on the complexity of your case and how much your teeth need to move. You will need to attend a number of appointments to allow us to make adjustments to your brace which will move your teeth as planned.
It is very important that you wear a retainer following any kind of treatment with braces to keep your newly aligned teeth in place and maintain your perfect smile. Your orthodontist will explain about removable and fixed/bonded retainers.
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During fixed brace treatment, you must pay close attention to your dental hygiene. In addition to regular brushing every morning and at bedtime we also advise brushing after every meal. This will prevent any food lingering around your braces which can lead to gum issues and enamel damage. You can use interdental brushes to clean any awkward areas. Disclosing tablets will reveal where you might need to carry out some extra cleaning.
There are some foods which you should avoid eating whilst having brace treatment. You could dislodge or damage your brace if you bite down on hard or chewy foods, so try to cut up harder items or avoid them altogether. It is also advisable to avoid sugary drinks and sticky sugary confectionery.
You may experience some soreness or discomfort in the first few days after your fixed braces have been fitted, and each time they are adjusted. This can be managed with painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, and will be temporary. You may also find one of the metal brackets or wire irritates your gum. If this is the case, you can place wax over the bracket to make it feel more comfortable in your mouth. If pain persists, please contact us.
As the name suggests, metal fixed braces cannot be removed once they are fitted to your teeth. This means they are always at work moving your teeth into their desired positions and your treatment cannot be interrupted by forgetting to put aligners back in your mouth. Once your treatment is complete, your orthodontist will carefully remove the brackets and wires for you.
Metal fixed braces will not damage the enamel of your teeth. They are carefully placed at the start of your treatment and removed at the end to ensure your teeth are unaffected. It is important that you keep up with a good oral hygiene routine at home, including using interdental brushes, to prevent tooth decay and discolouration.
by Dental
DesignSite last updated: December 2024
