Braces are a form of cosmetic dentistry that can treat a variety of dental issues ranging from crooked teeth to gaps. There are several types of braces that we offer at Ashlow Orthodontics to help improve the functioning and overall appearance of your teeth regardless of your age, so whether you would like to opt for traditional metal braces or prefer a more transparent look, braces Stoke-on-Trent will be a suitable option for you.

What can braces help treat?

Braces Stoke-on-Trent are able to correct many dental issues; they are more commonly used to treat crooked teeth and any gaps that you may have between your teeth. They can also be used to treat teeth that are rotated which you may find unsightly, and also crowded teeth which can sometimes lead to having an overbite. People of any age can suffer with these dental issues, which is why braces Stoke-On-Trent are an appropriate form of corrective treatment as they can help you avoid needing to undergo any surgical procedures to correct your teeth.

How do braces work?

Braces apply mild yet constant pressure on your teeth in order to gradually shift them into a more suitable position over the course of approximately one year. All braces work similarly to achieve the same result, however you may choose a specific kind of brace based on the severity of the misalignment of your teeth or the issue you are experiencing.

What types of braces can I get?

There are several types of braces you can choose to get based on your age and lifestyle. The most common form of braces seen in children and adolescents are traditional metal braces which are glued onto the surface of your teeth. Another type of braces that are becoming increasingly popular are clear aligners like Invisalign. These are more popular amongst adults who have delayed getting their teeth straightened and would prefer something less obvious, and also for adults who work in professional work settings as they are transparent.

Metal braces are a combination of stainless steel bands, brackets and wires. The dentist glues a bracket onto each tooth and then proceeds to place a thin flexible wire over the brackets. They then tie little elastic bands known as ligatures on the wires to keep them firmly in place. Metal braces are visible, however you can opt for tooth-coloured or transparent bands to help make the braces look less obvious.

Clear braces have become increasingly popular in recent years as they are a more appealing alternative to visible braces. Unlike traditional metal braces, clear aligners consist of a number of custom-made trays used to straighten your teeth over time. Our dentist takes 3D X-rays of your teeth to predict the future alignment of your teeth so that they can create a selection of custom-made trays to fit your teeth as they progress and shift over time. Each tray is worn for approximately two to eight weeks before changing to a new tray. Another benefit to choosing clear aligners is that they are removable unlike metal braces, so you can avoid getting them stained or damaged when eating. It is important that you wear your clear aligners for a minimum of twenty-two hours a day to ensure the aligners work efficiently and the desired results are achieved.