We specialise in orthodontic
treatment for the straightening of misaligned teeth and correcting “bite
problems”. Conventional orthodontic braces are made
from springs and wires that are often visible, permanently
fixed to your teeth and can be unsightly and embarrassing.
Fixed braces can also interfere with your oral hygiene.
Here at Rejuvadent we offer the latest in cosmetic orthodontics
by Clearstep, which are virtually invisible, removable clear
aligners. Now it is possible to have your teeth straightened
without it being obvious to everyone around you. You can easily
remove the clear aligners whilst eating and to clean your teeth.
We also offer white
tooth coloured braces.
More information on braces
How long will I have to wear braces?
It really depends on how much work there is to do and how
far your teeth need to be moved.
Fixed braces – usually take between 12 and 24 months,
but could take longer if the problem is severe.
Removable braces – usually take less time than a fixed
brace. However, you might need to wear a removable brace
before and after you have finished your treatment with a
fixed brace.
Your dentist or orthodontist will be able to give you advice
about your brace and teeth. If you don’t do what they
say, the brace can take longer to work and the treatment
may be unsuccessful. If your brace is damaged or broken this
can also delay the treatment.
How often do I need to visit my Orthodontist while the
braces are on?
You will need to have your brace adjusted regularly to
make sure it is working properly. Usually you will have
an appointment
roughly every six to eight weeks. It is extremely important
that you go to these appointments otherwise the brace will
take a lot longer to work.
Will my mouth be sore between visits?
Your mouth is very sensitive to change and it will take you
a few days to get used to wearing your brace. At first,
your teeth may feel uncomfortable because of the pressure
put onto them by the brace. It may also feel uncomfortable
and tight against your teeth after it has been adjusted.
Painkillers like ibuprofen can help. Some parts of the
brace may also cause discomfort to your gums and lips,
causing sore spots. Your dentist or orthodontist can give
you clear wax to place over the part of the brace that
is causing discomfort. However, if after a few days any
part of your brace is causing continual soreness, you should
go back to your dentist or orthodontist.
Will I be able to speak normally?
Sometimes when a brace is fitted, it may affect your speech
and cause problems in pronouncing certain words. Lisping
may also be a problem at first, but most people soon adapt
and quickly begin to speak clearly within a few days.
Can I do sports while wearing my braces?
If you have a removable brace then it is best to take it
out and put it in a brace case. You can buy these from
your dentist, or from most large chemists. If you do
remove your
brace, it is important to use a mouth guard and then
put your brace back in as soon as possible. It is also
best
to take your brace out if you are swimming. If you have
a fixed
brace you should wear a special mouth guard for use during
contact sports over the brace. Your dentist will be able
to make you one.
Can I still play musical instruments?
Braces may affect playing wind instruments, although with practice you should
get used to it. If your brace is removable then it is best to remove it and
store it safely in a brace case. Put it back in straight after you have finished
playing. |

Can I eat normally?
Eating the wrong foods can damage or even break your brace. For the first few
days, it may be better to keep to soft foods.
Whether you have a removable or a fixed brace you should
avoid sticky, chewy and sugary foods. Chewing-gum is not
recommended as it can stick to your brace. Avoid hard foods
such as whole apples, carrots, French bread and crusty rolls.
These foods could break the orthodontic wires and brackets.
At first it is best to cut your food into small pieces and
keep to a soft diet. Food may build up in the brackets and
in between your teeth and will need careful cleaning to remove
it.
Avoid fizzy drinks and natural fruit juices as these are
often high in sugar and can be acidic. This can lead to tooth
decay and erosion. Fizzy drinks can also stain the orthodontic
brackets. If you do drink fizzy drinks, avoid constant sipping
of the drink and use a straw. Water and plain milk are the
safest drinks.
What if I damage my braces?
If you lose or damage your brace tell your dentist or orthodontist as soon
as possible. Do not wait until your next routine appointment because any
time you are not wearing your brace, or it is not in the correct position,
affects your treatment and makes it more likely that your teeth will go back
to their old position. Dentists will charge for lost or broken braces before
replacing them.
What products can help me to
protect my mouth and braces?
Total care toothpastes. These
contain a number of active ingredients such as fluoride or
tartar control to make them effective multi-action toothpaste.
They help control plaque, dental decay and gum disease while
also freshening your breath.
Electric or battery-operated toothbrushes can
be used, although with care, as long as you can get to all
your teeth. Ask your dentist or orthodontist about special
small brushes which are suitable for cleaning your teeth
when wearing a brace.
Interdental brushes. These can
help you clean a fixed brace. They can get in between your
teeth and are ideal for cleaning around the brackets of a
fixed brace. Your dentist or chemist should stock these.
Floss threaders. You can use these
to help you get dental floss under the orthodontic wires
to remove trapped food particles.
Disclosing tablets. These contain
a harmless dye which stains the dental plaque. This makes
it easier to see where the plaque is when you are brushing.
This helps you to make sure that you are brushing your teeth
properly. Your dentist, chemist or supermarket will stock
these.
Fluoride mouth rinses. Using fluoride
mouth rinses regularly can help to prevent dental decay and
tooth decalcification. You should only use them under the
guidance and instruction of your dentist or orthodontist.
How do I clean my removable braces?
Your dentist or orthodontist will be able to show you special techniques for
cleaning your brace. It is best to clean your brace over a sink full of water
so that it isn’t damaged if you drop it. Keep a separate toothbrush
just for cleaning your brace. Use toothpaste to clean it. Gently brush the
brace and rinse it thoroughly with fresh water afterwards. |