Orthodontics
Orthodontic braces are used to gently move your own teeth into correct alignment. Sometimes orthodontic appliances are necessary to alter the alignment of the jaw.
When necessary, we refer patients to local orthodontic specialists to ensure appropriate treatment is done at the correct time. At Apple Dental Studios, we can provide cosmetic front teeth straightening using the latest developments in invisible braces.
We use one of the following systems, depending on the specific needs and requirements of each patient. Sometimes a combination of these systems is required.
Made of thin, clear plastic to the precise dimensions of your teeth, clear aligners are almost undetectable to the people around you. By exerting a gentle but constant force on your teeth, they are slowly moved to the desired positions. A series of different clear aligners is needed to produce the final result.
The full range of ‘invisible’ orthodontics will have minimal impact on your social life and career while having no dietary restrictions during treatment as the clear aligners are removable.
The Inman Aligner is a simple removable appliance used to align front teeth quickly and safely. It is ideal as a stand alone treatment or to prealign teeth prior to further cosmetic options such as clear aligners, bonded fillings or minimal veneers.
Six Month Smiles utilises unique clear brackets bonded to the teeth and tooth-coloured wires, whereas aligners are made of clear plastic and can be removed by the patient. This technique can be used in a wider range of cases than aligners. It has greater control over the outcome of the treatment and the desired tooth movements. Clear aligners are sometimes used after this treatment to achieve the final position.
STB Social 6 Braces offer a discrete method of straightening teeth, and are completely invisible to others due to them being bonded to the back of teeth. This type of brace is perfect if you want to straighten your teeth discretely.
As with all orthodontic treatment, retention is recommended for life to prevent relapse. Retention can come in the form of a wire bonded to the back of the teeth, or a removable clear plastic retainer.
Referral to an Orthodontist
For more complex cases, we would refer you to an orthodontic specialist.
There are many different types of braces available to allow your orthodontic specialist to close gaps, uncross teeth, move protruding front teeth back, or line them up nicely.
Removable appliances may be used to achieve simple movement in quite a short space of time. In some cases, a removable brace forms a first stage of treatment before moving on to fixed braces.
Fixed braces are made up of metal brackets glued to the teeth, which hold a thin strip of wire. Treatment typically takes between 12 and 24 months.
Your orthodontist will want to see you every 5 – 8 weeks or so, to make adjustments to the braces, and check progress.
After treatment is finished, you’ll need to wear retainers. These can be removable or fixed (a thin strip of wire glued behind your teeth). The retainers will hold your teeth in their new positions, so that you can keep your confident smile looking great!
Care of your teeth, gums and braces
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Daily brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining good oral health as well as keeping the braces trouble-free.
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Regular dental and hygiene appointments will enable your dentist to detect any problems and recommend necessary treatment. Food residue can become trapped within the braces, so regular hygienist visits will ensure that the oral hygiene is optimal, ensuring there is no damage to teeth enamel and gums.
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Correct dietary control is essential to prevent decay to the teeth.
During your orthodontic treatment, it is vitally important to continue with regular dental examinations and hygienist visits to ensure excellent oral health.