Fixed braces consist of small brackets that are attached onto the front surface of the teeth with a dental adhesive. The brackets are then connected with a thin wire which is often held in place with elastic (sometimes coloured) loops. There are various types of fixed appliance systems available ranging from metal brackets to clear (aesthetically pleasing) brackets. They enable the orthodontist to accurately move the teeth into the desired position. The orthodontist has more control over the position of the teeth with fixed appliances than can be achieved with removable appliances or removable aligners.

Most patients will need to attend our practice for regular appointments (usually every 8 weeks) for the appliance to be adjusted.

Once the active phase of the orthodontic treatment has been completed, the majority of patients are provided with retainers in order to maintain the finished result. Retainers can be removable or fixed onto the tongue-side of the teeth. Failure to wear or maintain retainers as instructed is likely to result in the teeth becoming more crooked and crowded as they try to move back to their pre-treatment position.

Throughout orthodontic treatment it is essential to maintain an excellent standard of oral hygiene and dental health (through careful dietary control) as advised by the team at Circus Orthodontics.