Fixed Braces (Labial & Lingual Orthodontics)

The primary difference between labial (also known as buccal) and lingual orthodontic braces lies in their placement on the teeth:

1. Labial (Buccal) Braces:
   • Placement: Labial braces are the traditional type of braces placed on the front surface of the teeth, which is the side facing the lips (labial/buccal).
   • Visibility: These braces are visible when you smile or speak, making them a more noticeable orthodontic option.
   • Attachment: Brackets are attached to the front of the teeth, and the archwire is threaded through them to guide tooth movement.
2. Lingual Braces:
   • Placement: Lingual braces are placed on the back surface of the teeth, facing the tongue (lingual).
   • Visibility: Since lingual braces are hidden behind the teeth, they are not visible when you smile or talk, providing a more discreet orthodontic option.
   • Attachment: Customised brackets are attached to the back of the teeth, and the archwire is threaded through them, allowing for effective tooth movement.

The duration of orthodontic treatment with metal, ceramic or lingual braces can vary widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of the orthodontic issues, the type of braces used, and the individual’s response to treatment. On average, orthodontic treatment with fixed braces typically ranges from 12 months to 2/3 years.

Here are some general considerations:

1. Mild Cases:
   • Individuals with mild misalignments or spacing issues may complete treatment on the shorter end of the spectrum, around 12 to 18 months.
2. Moderate Cases:
   • Cases with moderate orthodontic issues, such as more significant misalignments or bite problems, may take approximately 12 to 24 months for treatment completion.
3. Complex Cases:
   • Cases with more complex orthodontic issues, such as severe crowding, extensive bite discrepancies, or multiple phases of treatment, may extend beyond 24 months, sometimes up to 2 years or more.

Your dentist will most likely need to see you every 4-8 weeks. These appointments are required so that the doctor can ensure you’re on track and your treatment is progressing as planned.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial when undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. Braces create additional surfaces where plaque and food particles can accumulate, making it essential to take extra care to prevent issues such as cavities and gum disease. Here’s a comprehensive dental hygiene regime for individuals with fixed orthodontic appliances:

• See your dental hygienist for regular oral hygiene cleanings
• Brush twice a day, and use OralB Superfloss at least once a day. Superfloss has a stiff end that helps thread it under the wire.
• Use a soft-bristle, electric toothbrush to clean around the brackets and wires without causing damage to your braces or enamel.
• Choose a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day. It helps flush away food particles and bacteria, promoting a cleaner mouth.
• Limit sugary foods & beverages and avoid sticky & hard foods
• Keep orthodontic wax on hand to alleviate any discomfort caused by wires or brackets rubbing against the cheeks or lips.

Ensure you understand and follow your orthodontist’s specific instructions and recommendations for oral hygiene.

With any orthodontic package at 78MPR, in order to retain your new smile, we include both fixed discreet fixed retainers and a set of night-time removable retainers.

Fixed discreet retainers are expertly crafted to keep your teeth in their newly aligned positions without anyone noticing. Made from high-quality materials, our fixed discreet retainers are comfortable, durable, and provide a seamless solution for maintaining your orthodontic progress.

Removable (night-time) retainers are crafted with precision and designed to be worn comfortably while you sleep, allowing your teeth to maintain their alignment without any disruption to your daily activities.

We understand teeth straightening treatments aren’t the cheapest so we have provided an interest free payment plan to help you spread the cost. 

Enclosed within your treatment report following your initial assessment with one of our dentists, we will provide a payment plan option for you. Usually, the practice requires a third to be settled in advance to begin your treatment and the remaining sum can be spread over 9-12 months via direct debit monthly instalments. If you want to alter the plan proposed, you can speak with the business manager, Emma Russell who would be delighted to help you.