treatment for children

Why do I need to see an orthodontist?

Teeth that are crowded or crooked or stick out can be corrected using braces. A specialist in braces is called an orthodontist.

When is it best to start treatment?

Some treatments are carried out when baby teeth are still present, to create space for teeth and encourage growth of the jaws. But most treatments can only begin when the adult teeth have grown and the baby teeth have gone.

What are braces?

Braces are precision appliances and can position teeth very accurately and precisely into straight lines. The teeth are pushed or pulled along a wire using elastic bands or springs. They glide along the wire using a bracket which is attached to the tooth.

How long will the treatment take?

Treatment using fixed braces often takes 18 months to 2 years. The treatment takes a long time, a lot of expertise from your orthodontist and a lot of cooperation from you!

How are my braces fitted?

Firstly, your teeth are cleaned and a liquid is placed on each tooth to prepare the surface. This is then washed off and your teeth are dried. We might place something to keep your lips and cheeks away so your teeth stay nice and dry. This may look strange but does not hurt. Then each individual bracket (metal block on your tooth) is placed on with glue. This is then set using a blue light. The wire is then threaded through the brackets and secured either with tiny coloured elastics or with a gate on the actual bracket.

Does it hurt?

Having braces fitted may taste funny but it wont hurt. Your teeth may start to feel achy after a few hours and your teeth feel tender for the first few days as your teeth get used to moving.

How are they tightened?

The wires are just taken out and replaced.