Are there alternatives to fixed braces?

If you’re getting braces, you’ll have lots of questions. One of the first things people want to know is what they’ll look like.

Metal fixed braces are a fantastic way to straighten teeth, but they don’t win any prizes for discretion. Luckily, we have some other options that we can explore together at your initial consultation.

Ceramic braces

Fixed braces don’t have to resemble metal train tracks. Instead, you can opt for clear ceramic brackets that blend in with your teeth. They’re very discreet compared to metal braces and just as good at aligning teeth.

Most patients are suitable for clear braces – they can straighten simple crowding and spacing as well as more complicated cases, including bite issues.

We’ll attach your braces to your teeth at the start of your treatment, where they’ll remain in place throughout your journey.

The archwire that connects your brackets will react to the warmth of your mouth to gently move your teeth. You’ll visit us for regular check-ups so we can change your archwire and keep a close eye on your progress.

It might take you a few days to get used to your braces, but once they’re part of your daily routine, they’re very easy to get along with.

Invisalign

If you’re deterred by more than just the appearance of fixed braces, you might be interested in Invisalign. It works the same magic as fixed braces, but instead of brackets and wires, it uses clear removable aligners to move your teeth.

Invisalign aligners are almost invisible and provide the same incredible results as fixed braces. Today’s aligners can straighten most misalignments. Occasionally, we might recommend fixed braces over clear aligners if we think you’ll achieve a better result.

Your Invisalign aligners will be custom-made to straighten your teeth. You’ll be able to remove them for a few hours every day to eat and drink and brush and floss your teeth.

Most patients find Invisalign to be a convenient alternative to fixed braces. Just bear in mind that even though you can remove your braces, you’ll need to wear them for at least 20 hours each day. Otherwise, you won’t see results.

We use the DentalMonitoring app to monitor your progress between appointments. You’ll take weekly snaps of your smile for our team to review to make sure everything’s on track.

Which options are available through the NHS?

If you are under 18 and you qualify for NHS treatment, your funding will cover metal fixed braces. If you want to upgrade to clear brackets or Invisalign aligners, they are only available privately.

Private orthodontic treatment is available to all ages, and we can provide a quote for all your options at your first consultation. Private treatment is self-funded – there are several ways you can pay, including interest-free monthly instalments.

To learn more about braces and how our specialists can tame your teeth, visit us in Hove for a no-obligation consultation.

Our consultations are complimentary if you’re 18 or over. If you’re under 18, your dentist can refer you for a free NHS assessment, or you can pay to see us privately, and we’ll take the cost of your appointment off the price of your treatment.


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