Types of braces for teeth uk
Main brace options include fixed metal, ceramic, lingual braces, and removable clear aligners.
The short answer
The main brace options are fixed metal braces, ceramic fixed braces, lingual braces attached behind the teeth, and removable clear aligners.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Braces move teeth by applying controlled force through brackets, wires, attachments, or aligner trays. Choice depends on the tooth movements needed, bite, gum and bone health, hygiene, appearance preferences, and ability to wear or care for the appliance.
What can you do next?
An orthodontic assessment uses photographs, scans or impressions, bite records, and radiographs when indicated. The clinician plans space, anchorage, tooth movement, retention, and any need for extractions or restorative care.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek assessment before orthodontics if gums bleed frequently, teeth are loose, decay is untreated, or jaw pain is unexplained. Urgent help is needed for facial trauma or severe swelling.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which movements the proposed appliance can achieve, how it will be cleaned, what retention involves, and how existing fillings, gum health, or jaw growth affect the plan.
Frequently asked questions
Are clear aligners suitable for every case? No. They are effective for selected movements, while fixed appliances may provide more control for complex rotations, root movement, bite correction, or limited compliance.
Ask which movements the proposed appliance can achieve, how it will be cleaned, what retention involves, and how existing fillings, gum health, or jaw growth affect the plan.
Why are retainers needed after braces?
Teeth can shift after active movement, so a retainer helps hold their new positions while the surrounding tissues adapt.