Braces is an interesting word for a very clever concept that has evolved over hundreds of years and will no doubt continue to evolve for hundreds of years to come. In dentistry it originates from the name of the first devices used by dentists to straighten teeth, devices which would form a more literal “brace” in the mouth and push the teeth outwards and back into a straighter position in the mouth. Modern braces are much less intrusive than their original namesakes, and can take a variety of forms, many of which we offer at Burwell dental surgery in Cambridge. Braces and treatments that involve the use of dental braces are also sometimes referred to as orthodontics, or orthodontic braces.

Burwell Dental Surgery, Cambridge. Braces – what are the options?

At Burwell Dental Surgery, we give our patients the option of both fixed and removable braces, there are advantages to both types of braces.

Fixed braces (traditional wire braces) have the advantage of sometimes being the quicker option. In these cases wearing the more obvious wire type of braces may be desirable in order to facilitate a faster result. Fixed braces can also come with tooth coloured brackets, which make the braces a bit more discreet. Alternatively colours can be used on the braces for a fun effect. This is more preferable for some children, but adults can use colours as well.

Removable braces are sometimes preferred by adults and also have a more effective application for issues which involve bite correction, i.e. widening or narrowing the bite or jaw. These braces also have the advantage of being taken out, which makes eating and cleaning much easier.

Usually braces are offered to children and teenagers, however there is a popular trend amongst adults towards orthodontic treatments for crooked or misaligned teeth. Teeth straightening is not necessarily the only part of the orthodontic process. In some cases our orthodontist may refer a patient back to the dentist to remove one or more of their teeth if the reason for orthodontic treatment is crowding of the mouth or multiple teeth occurring where only one should have erupted in the mouth.