Orthodontic Braces
Fixed appliances - ‘Train Tracks’
Fixed appliances are fixed braces or ‘train tracks’ which are used to straighten your teeth. They are glued to your teeth. They may be metal or ceramic (‘clear/cosmetic’).
Is it painful having braces?
It is likely to be sore for about 3-5 days after the brace is fitted and each time the brace is adjusted. If necessary, simple painkillers such as the ones you would normally take for a headache should help- please read instructions on the packet. If the brace rubs against your lips or cheeks, you can use some wax to help with this. Using a small piece of wax or a full strip may help to alleviate symptoms.
Ensure the area which is rubbing is as dry as possible (dry area using a cotton bud) and press the wax on to the brace. Orthodontic wax is easily removed with hot drinks and eating and may need to be reapplied several times.
Can I eat normally with Braces?
When the braces are first fitted, we advise you to have a soft diet for 1-3 days. Otherwise, you should be able to eat normally. However, for your orthodontic treatment to work well and in the shortest possible time, it is important that you take care of your teeth and brace.
To avoid damage to both, you should:
Metal Braces - FAQ
Can I remove the brace?
The brace is fixed (‘glued’) to the teeth for the duration of your treatment. You should not try to remove it, as you may damage your teeth and the treatment will not work.
How long will treatment take?
Usually about 12-30 months but this will vary depending on how severe your tooth problem is. Missed appointments or repeated breakages of the brace will add to your overall treatment time and could lead to failed treatment.
Will I need to wear anything in addition to the fixed brace?
Once the active phase of your treatment has finished, it will be necessary to wear a retaining brace. This may be removable or it may be fixed/glued behind your front teeth. Retention is lifelong. Teeth may return to their original position any time after the brace is removed, if retainers are not worn.
How often will I need an appointment?
You will need regular appointments (usually every 5-8 weeks) during treatment for the brace to be adjusted.
What if I play sports?
It is recommended that you wear a gum shield. This will also be the case if you take part in activities requiring a protective helmet e.g. camogie, hurling, horse riding.
What if I play a musical instrument?
Fixed train track braces generally do not impact playing musical instruments. You can discuss this further with your music teacher and orthodontist. Download an advice sheet on this subject from www.bos.org.uk
What do I do if my brace breaks or I lose it?
Ring up for an appointment as soon as is reasonably possible. Do not wait for your next appointment. You may be advised to attend sooner than your next routine appointment depending on what stage in treatment you are in as the breakage may slow your treatment or result in damage to your teeth. If you repeatedly break your brace, your treatment may be stopped early.
The above information has been taken from: The British Orthodontic Society website: www.bos.org.uk
Brushing your Teeth with Braces
How much do Braces cost?
Prices vary depending on the treatment you need. Please discuss this with your dentist during your assessment. At Colm Smith Dental we provide our patients with the knowledge and expertise needed to get the best results.
Our pricing is competitive, and our dentists are highly skilled. Please see our price list below or call one of our practices in Cootehill and Monaghan to find out more.
Orthodontic Treatments
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You are more than a number for us here at Colm Smith Dental, and we promise to do our utmost to ensure you have a healthy smile and mouth, and you have a reason to smile leaving our clinic
Colm & Lucia Smith
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If you are unsure what treatment you may need, please fill out the appointment form with as much information as possible and we will contact you as soon as we can.
We have Dental Clinics in Cootehill in Cavan and also in Monaghan centre.