Orthodontics - Fixed Braces

Fixed braces are one of the most effective ways of straightening teeth. There are 3 stages to having your fixed brace applied:

Stage1 - Rubber separators are used to make space between your back molar teeth to allow bands (stage 2) to fit into place. These separators are left in place for 2-3 days.

Stage 2 - The rubber separators are removed. The bands which are made of very thin metal are carefully fitted around the back molar teeth and bonded into place. They have either a tube or rook attached so that orthodontic arch wires (stage 3) can be held in place.

Stage 3 - Orthodontic brackets are small, square metal staples that are bonded directly onto each tooth. An arch wire is then placed through them - the arch wire is a guide or track along which the teeth are moved. There are changes throughout the treatment and each change means you are getting closer to the ideal position for your teeth.

Sometimes elastics are used; these are small rubber bands which are attached to a hook on one of your molar bands and a hook on the arch wire towards the front of your mouth. These elastics provide gentle but continuous force to help individual tooth movement or to align one arch to the next.

Tooth movement will only occur if these elastics are worn as directed and will help speed up your orthodontic treatment.

Fixed braces can be used either after or at the same time as a removable brace or functional brace.