Fixed Braces

Fixed braces are placed when teeth need to be guided more accurately for good occlusion and space closure. It is not possible for the patient to take the appliance out, so it is called fixed appliances. The most visible parts of your braces are the square metal, plastic or ceramic “brackets”. They are glued directly to you teeth. A flexible wire (arch wire) joins all brackets and allows the teeth to be moved. Smaller wires (ligature wires) or tiny elastic bands (modules) fasten the archwire to the bracket. If brackets are not cemented directly to your teeth, they may be cemented by metal ring (band) that fits around your teeth. (you will most likely have bands around your back molars)

 

Elastics

It may be necessary to attach delicate rubber bands (elastic bands) to a fixed brace to help in getting better bite and closing extraction gaps. If you do have rubber bands (elastics), you will remove and replace them yourself. Your orthodontist will show you how to do this and give you a supply of rubber band. Call the clinic if your supply of rubber bands is running out, we could post them to you.
 
Headgear

It is sometimes necessary to wear headgear as an addition to your fixed braces. It is an extra oral appliance and some people call it a “night brace”. It is usually attached to bands of upper molars. Headgear usually needs to be worn only in the evenings or at nights. Your orthodontist will discuss whether it is necessary. It is very important to wear it as advised; otherwise, treatment mat not progress correctly.
 

Caring for braces

It is important to continue to have your teeth checked by your dentist while having orthodontic treatment. Routine check-ups will be done for caries and for signs of gum disease.


General

Your teeth may feel sore, and eating may be difficult for a day or two after each visit to the orthodontic clinic. This gradually goes away and is less after each visit. Often, pain reliever will help. It would also be beneficial to increase your vitamin C and B-complex intake. Drinking plenty of water and early to bed will also help. If problems do persist, Please do not hesitate to call Your orthodontist

Food

  • Do not chew on anything but food. Chewing on objects such as pencils and paper clips and also activities such as biting your nail and playing with you elastics can damage braces and prolong the amount of time you have to wear braces.
  • Do not eat hard, sticky or sugary foods or drink fizzy beverages (carbonated soft drink). Avoid foods such as popcorn, nuts, chips, bubble gum, toffee and caramels. Avoid chewing on ice cubes and “snacking” with food or drink containing sugars. All these things can damage braces and/or cause tooth decay.
  • Cut up foods such as fruits and vegetables (apples and carrots). Hard bread crusts should be cut into bite size pieces before eating, Chopping up solid food would reduce pressure on braces during eating.