Orthodontics

Orthodontics: so much more than just metal braces

Orthodontics doesn’t just mean metal braces. At Surrey Braces in Weybridge, our highly-qualified team of specialist orthodontists have numerous options for patients who want to straighten their teeth in a more discreet manner, regardless of how much orthodontic correction is required. We welcome patients of all ages and have, to date, treated more than 21,000 happy customers. Read on to discover what we could do for you. . .

Discreet treatment

orthodonticsThese days, orthodontic treatment is considered routine for children and teenagers. However, an increasing number of adult patients are also starting to recognise the benefits orthodontics can have on their smile, as well as on their dental and general health.

There is just one stumbling block for adults seeking orthodontic treatment, and that is that many people still believe orthodontics is synonymous with metal “train-track” style braces. Whilst these remain a popular treatment option for children and teenagers, adults often worry that metal braces will be incompatible with their lifestyle.

At our specialist orthodontic practice in Weybridge, we understand this – which is why we offer a number of more discreet options. Discreet orthodontics may involve the use of braces or aligners, with the best option depending on a number of factors including the amount and type of correction required, your personal preferences and lifestyle.

What are my options?

We offer both direct access treatment and referrals from other dentists at our Weybridge practice. When you come for your initial orthodontics consultation, you will be examined carefully by one of our skilled team members, who will then discuss all relevant treatment options.

These include:

Clear aligners

These removable devices fit over your teeth and help you maintain good dental hygiene because you can take them out to brush your teeth.

Tooth-coloured braces

These blend into your mouth and are almost invisible.

Lingual braces

These are attached to the rear surfaces of your teeth.

Discreet orthodontics: Incognito braces explored

Orthodontics, to many people, conjures up images of metal wire and bracket braces, sometimes called “train-track style” braces. However, at Surrey Braces in Weybridge, there are several more discreet options available for those requiring orthodontic treatment – including the popular Incognito brace system.

weybridge-orthodonticsIncognito braces are designed to provide all the benefits of traditional orthodontics, without being obvious in your mouth. They are just one of the discreet orthodontic options available at our Weybridge dental practice, all of which have been created with a busy adult lifestyle in mind.

Braces remain the staple of orthodontics and give your orthodontist maximum control over the movement of your teeth. The one big difference between Incognito and standard braces is that they are attached to the rear surfaces of your teeth – meaning that they will be invisible in everyday life.

Incognito feature a unique, customised bracket design that makes them very comfortable to wear. These braces are custom-made to fit your teeth and, because they are worn on the back of your teeth, they are one of the most discreet options available in modern orthodontics.

If you are interested in treatment with Incognito lingual braces, you should book an orthodontics consultation at our Weybridge dental practice. Your orthodontist will use the latest 3D imaging technology to custom-design your braces, and will be able to show you what results you can expect before you begin treatment.

Our Weybridge orthodontists pay great attention to detail in order to ensure that your braces will fit you perfectly, so you will need a thorough orthodontic examination to take accurate measurements before your braces are designed and fitted.

Incognito lingual braces are just one of the discreet orthodontic treatments available from Surrey Braces in Weybridge. Your orthodontist will be able to advise you which is the best treatment option to meet your clinical needs and fit in with your lifestyle requirements at your initial consultation.

Common myths about orthodontics dispelled

At our Weybridge practice, we have many patients who have come to orthodontics later in life. Our skilled team of orthodontic specialists are able to offer a variety of treatment options for patients who wish to improve the appearance of their smile by straightening their teeth, in the form of braces or aligners.

There are some common myths about orthodontics that we would like to dispel.

Myth 1: Orthodontics is for children

weybridgeorthodonticsWhilst orthodontic treatment on the NHS is available only to children with a proven clinical need – as judged by the Department of Health’s Index of Orthodontic Treatment Needs – more adults than ever before are turning to orthodontics later in life to improve the aesthetic appearance of their smile, and with it boost their self-confidence.

Myth 2: Orthodontics means metal braces

Metal braces are just one of the options on offer at our Weybridge practice. We use Gemini braces with customisable coloured elastic bands, so if you do opt for metal braces you will be able to personalise them. Other treatment options include Invisalign and RXalign clear aligners, Incognito lingual braces (which are fitted to the back of your teeth), and clear or tooth-coloured braces. All of these are very discreet.

Myth 3: Treatment takes ages – and hurts

Everyone’s treatment times will be different, because it will depend on such factors as the type and amount of orthodontic correction needed, and on which device we use. However, in many cases treatment is now much quicker than it was in the past – Damon clear braces are specially designed to move your teeth quickly, for example.

Orthodontics used to be associated with discomfort, but many patients at our Weybridge practice are happy to testify how comfortable treatment was, thanks to advances in techniques and materials.

If you are interested in orthodontic treatment, why not book a consultation at our Weybridge practice today?

It’s never too late for orthodontics to change your life

Orthodontics can help patients of all ages who want to straighten their teeth or correct problems with their bite – the way the jaws meet together. At our Weybridge practice, we offer a wide range of orthodontic treatments to correct everything from mild alignment problems to complex bite-related issues.

orthodontics in WeybridgeThe majority of our orthodontists are specialist-qualified, and all are members of professional organisations including The British Orthodontic Society and The World Federation of Orthodontists. If you are looking for advice about orthodontics or specialist treatment, our Weybridge-based team can help.

We offer free NHS orthodontics for children who qualify under the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Needs, and also provide private orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages, and for those young people who do not wish to be placed on an NHS waiting list.

Many younger patients are treated with Gemini braces, which come with coloured elastic bands for the ultimate in customisation. You can choose from a wide selection of colours and have all one colour or several colours – whichever you prefer.

For adults and those seeking more discreet treatment, there are a number of invisible and near-invisible options available at our Weybridge practice. These include clear aligners such as Invisalign, clear or tooth-coloured braces, and Incognito lingual braces.

What are the differences between treatment options?

Because orthodontics can be used to treat a huge range of alignment problems, the best option for your treatment will depend on the type and amount of correction required.

All patients will have an initial orthodontics consultation, at which your orthodontist will recommend the best options for you.

Incognito lingual braces are fitted to the back of your teeth so nobody will see them. They can treat even complex problems.

Clear braces such as Damon and ceramic braces such as Clarity can also be used to correct many different conditions. They are barely noticeable in the mouth.

Invisalign clear aligners are another highly discreet option, applying the traditional principles of orthodontics to removable aligners. If you are suitable for treatment with Invisalign, you will be given a series of these aligners that are custom-made to fit your teeth as they move. You will need to change your aligner every two weeks.

At our Weybridge practice we also offer treatment with RXaligners, which are also clear and removable and can correct crooked, misaligned or overlapped teeth.

If you are interested in orthodontics in Weybridge, please contact us to book a consultation.

Orthodontics for adults: the options

Many people wrongly assume that orthodontics is only for children and teenagers. This is not the case. At Weybridge Orthodontics we welcome patients of all ages who would like to straighten their teeth. For those looking for a more discreet option, we have a wide range of invisible and near-invisible braces and aligners, including popular brands such as Incognito braces and Invisalign clear aligners.

weybridge orthodonticsAt our Weybridge practice we are well aware that many adults who would like straighter teeth are concerned about wearing traditional braces, which while effective are also very obvious in the mouth. Fortunately, there have been huge advances in discreet orthodontics in recent years, meaning that in many cases it is now possible to straighten your teeth without anyone knowing, and with minimal impact on your lifestyle.

We welcome referrals from dentists in Weybridge, across Surrey and beyond. If you are interested in adult orthodontics, you can ask your dentist to refer you or can refer yourself. These are just some of the treatment options we offer:

Lingual braces

Braces remain the best way to straighten teeth in many cases. They can correct more severe orthodontic problems than aligners.

Lingual braces employ the traditional principles of orthodontics but modernise them for maximum discretion. They are placed on the back or lingual side of your teeth, meaning nobody will know you are wearing them. At our Weybridge practice we use Incognito lingual braces, which are the only 100% customised fixed appliance system for invisible orthodontic treatment available in the UK.

Clear and ceramic braces

Clear and ceramic braces are worn on the front of the teeth but, because they are tooth-coloured or clear, they are very discreet. We use the Clarity and Damon brace systems to treat many problems.

Invisalign

Invisalign clear aligners fit over your teeth and are removable, for maximum discretion and comfort.

It’s never too late for orthodontics!

Orthodontics is traditionally associated with children and teenagers. However, at Surrey Braces dental practice in Weybridge we are keen to emphasise that patients of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment. Whether you want aesthetic treatment to improve the appearance of your smile, are in need of tooth straightening to improve your oral health, or a combination of the two, we are here to help.

Orthodontics? Doesn’t that mean metal braces?

orthodonticsIn a nutshell, not necessarily. Orthodontics has seen huge developments in recent years. At Surrey Braces in Weybridge our team of dentists and orthodontists have a huge selection of discreet devices at their disposal to correct a wide range of problems.

Discreet orthodontics takes the traditional orthodontic principles and modernises them. By using clear aligners, tooth-coloured or clear braces, dentists are able to provide treatment that is almost invisible.

At Surrey Braces dental practice in Weybridge our orthodontists have many options for adults interested in orthodontics. Let’s take a look at some of them. . .

Clear aligners

Clear aligners are increasingly popular with patients and dentists alike. They fit over your teeth and can be removed for eating, drinking and to clean. Because they are made from clear plastic nobody will notice you are having treatment.

Popular brands include RXAligners and Invisalign, both of which we offer at our Weybridge practice. You will be fitted with a series of aligners that you change regularly as your teeth move. The length of treatment will depend on the amount and type of correction required.

Clear braces

Clear braces apply the traditional principles of orthodontics to move teeth, but use clear or tooth-coloured wires and brackets. At our Weybridge dental practice we offer the popular Damon and Clarity brace brands, among others. Treatment times will depend on how much correction is needed.

Orthodontics for adults: the options

Many adults are concerned about the alignment of their teeth, but think that orthodontics means metal braces. This can be understandably off-putting for busy adults, with the thought of wearing traditional “train-track” style braces more distressing than the issues that make them embarrassed to show their smile. At Surrey Braces dental practice in Weybridge, we have a wide selection of discreet, fast orthodontic options perfect for busy adult lifestyles.

orthodontic optionsTraditional braces remain a predictable and effective way to straighten your teeth. Discreet orthodontics takes these traditional principles and modernises them, using tooth-coloured braces or clear aligners to correct a range of orthodontic problems. Many of these products also act more quickly than traditional braces.

Here are some of the popular orthodontic options offered at our Weybridge dental practice:

Clarity

Clarity applies the traditional principles of orthodontics to clear ceramic brackets. These advanced brackets are also smaller in size than their traditional metal counterparts, providing the ideal combination of performance and aesthetics.

Average treatment time with Clarity braces is 18-24 months, and they can correct a wide range of orthodontic problems.

Damon Clear

Damon braces are one of the most popular choices in modern orthodontics. They use tieless brackets and high-technology archwires to move teeth quickly, comfortably and discreetly. Damon Clear uses a passive slide mechanism that enables teeth to move freely and quickly, reducing friction and binding for a higher degree of comfort.

Clear aligners

Orthodontics isn’t all about braces. Many patients benefit from treatment with clear aligners such as Invisalign, which in addition to being comfortable and invisible are also removable, meaning you can take them out to eat, drink and clean.

If you are interested in discreet adult orthodontics, please get in touch with Surrey Braces in Weybridge to discover how our dentists can help you get the smile of your dreams.

Orthodontic Breakages: Be Careful What You Bite Into

When you first get your braces, you will need to avoid certain food items as they can actually impede the process of aligning your teeth. Some of the food items on the ban list are quite obvious, but there are some that, although may seem harmless, can actually do long-term damage to your teeth straightening appliances.

Crunch and Bite

Weybridge orthodonticsAs a general rule, food items that you have to exert more effort into biting or chewing can seriously damage your braces. Crusty bread, such as bagels or the actual crust of pizzas, are what you want to avoid as they can pop the brackets of your braces or bend its wires. If the wires start bending in different directions, your teeth will conform to their position and this can be extremely painful.

Snacks like popcorn, nuts and seeds, and hard candy are things you should also watch out. As you will be spending more time crunching and chewing these foodstuffs, you will be adding unnecessary strain into your braces and eventually, it will start wearing out.

Bits and Pieces

Some food items leave bits and pieces when you eat them; you do not need to stop eating these entirely, but you should take extra care when you do eat them. Sweets, especially caramel or softer candies often leave pieces behind your mouth. They do not necessarily damage your braces, but they are more difficult to clean.

Since these are sugars, they tend to attract bacteria when left unattended and that means you risk developing plaque or even tartar in hard to reach places, such as behind the wires of your braces. As your teeth tend to be more vulnerable when you have teeth straightening appliances, eating or sugary food or drinks may cause your teeth to decay faster.

While there are a lot of foodstuffs that you have to avoid when you get braces, there are also some that we suggest eating in order to strengthen your teeth. Anything with calcium, such as cheese, yoghurt and milk, help strengthen your teeth. If you want filling meals, we suggest eating noodle dishes as they tend to go down easily.

At Weybridge Orthodontics, we understand how serious breakages are and how certain food items can cause this. Visit our website at https://www.surreybraces.co.uk/ for more information about our orthodontic treatments, or arrange a consultation with us today.

Brackets and Bands for Years? Stop Delaying Orthodontic Treatment

The first thing many orthodontic patients ask is this: ‘How long will I have to wear these braces or aligners for?’

orthodontic treatmentChildren usually wear orthodontic appliances for almost two years, while adults wear them for about 12 to 20 months. Some patients, however, wear their braces or aligners for about four years and above—mainly because they fail to follow the rules that come with orthodontic treatment.

This does not need to be the case for everyone. Patients can stay on track and avoid delays in orthodontic treatment by following these guidelines.

Avoid Certain Types of Food

Gum, toffee, chips, and nuts are some of the foods to avoid when undergoing orthodontic treatment. It takes a lot of self-control, but these foods can do damage to orthodontic appliances. When they do, it will go a long way toward ensuring that the treatment timeline stays on schedule. For those wearing braces, each broken band or bracket adds about a month to the overall treatment.

Maintain Good Hygiene

Some orthodontic appliances are notorious for trapping food and allowing plaque and tartar to build up easily. Those undergoing treatment need to pay more attention to their hygiene more than ever to avoid complications.

We recommend brushing with a prescribed toothpaste after every meal, as well as using mouth rinses and flossing daily. For those wearing metal braces or other similar appliances, it is especially important to brush after eating sweets. Sugar can erode the cement keeping the braces in place.

Schedule Appointments Regularly

Those who have broken a bracket or stained clear aligners should schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible to prevent delays.

Patients should schedule appointments regularly as well, and avoid cancelling them. Each cancellation of an appointment extends the overall treatment by weeks—sometimes even months.

These are only a few of the major ways patients can avoid orthodontic delays. If you have some questions about treatment, please give us a call at 01932 831 825. Those who wish to undergo orthodontic treatment may contact us as well.

Orthodontics Change Facial Appearance, Too

Anyone who has ever watched after-school series on the telly look at braces as treatment that is exclusively for kids.

orthodontics in Weybridge2This, however, is no longer the case these days. Given the availability of more advanced treatments, changes in the appearance of orthodontic appliances, and speed of teeth movement with these appliances, orthodontics in Weybridge are now more accessible for 20-somethings (and over) who would like to correct misalignment.

Moreover, today’s braces do not simply change the appearance of the teeth; the treatments can also change the appearance of the whole face—in a good way, of course.

It is common for the human face to have a certain degree of asymmetry. For some people, however, this asymmetry is more obvious—particularly because of flaws in the mouth, such as crooked teeth, an underbite, and an overbite—and orthodontic treatments slowly and subtly fix the problem.

Underbite

Patients with an underbite normally have protruding chins that create a “moon” shape for the face. Once orthodontic treatment corrects this problem, the face will appear less concave. In addition, the overall features of the face soften and the teeth and lips fit together more attractively.

Open Bite

An open bite causes the mouth and the lips to appear somewhat unnaturally stretched. In severe cases, an open bite prevents the mouth from closing while at rest, and the lips may not cover the mouth altogether. This is an especially noticeable problem, and it is even visible in profile because it causes the upper lip to jut out.

An orthodontic treatment can correct the alignment problem, and at the same time softens the facial area between the nose and chin.

Overbite

A patient who has an overbite, one of the most common alignment issues, will usually have a protruding upper lip and sunken cheeks. Sometimes, much like an open bite, the patient’s lips do not cover the result.

Because orthodontic treatment changes the way the jaw and teeth fit together, patients suffering from an overbite can enjoy better harmony throughout the lower half of their face.

Having straight, well-aligned, clean, and healthy teeth will truly boost your confidence. If you are worried about orthodontic treatments changing your face shape, please note that the change is for the better, and the results are usually subtle.

Schedule a consultation with an orthodontist in Weybridge at our clinic—we can improve your teeth and the appearance of your face. Call us today!