Fixed Standard Braces

The Midlands Specialist Orthodontists

Despite innovations in removable braces
and fixed lingual braces over the past 20
years, fixed standard braces remain a
mainstay of orthodontic treatment, and for
good reason: they are reliable, safe,
predictable and, with modern systems,
can be less conspicuous than they once were.

The fixed standard brace assembly uses brackets affixed to the surface of the teeth with wire running through the brackets to apply force, causing gradual movement over time. We use the system made by American Orthodontics with brackets that are large enough to be mechanically effective but small enough not to be too obvious, striking a balance between appearance and function.

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Our in depth assessment and diagnosis enables us to form a detailed and highly accurate picture of how to move your teeth to achieve this balance.

Advantages of fixed standard braces

  • We can get teeth to move three dimensionally to a greater degree of accuracy than is possible with many removable systems
  • Many removable appliances such as Invisalign use high force over a short range. Although it might seem like this would cause teeth to move faster, the opposite can be true. Too much force can cause issues with the underlying bone, slowing down the movement of teeth and potentially damaging their roots
  • Fixed standard braces use lower force over a longer range, reducing the risk of damage to the teeth and encouraging faster and more controlled movement

Once fitted, fixed standard braces will remain in place from anything from three months to three years, although an average treatment length would be one year to 18 months. For some people, it might be too difficult to live with a prominent appliance so they might want to consider ceramic braces as a less visible alternative. There are more discreet options available too, such as fixed lingual braces, and these are all things your specialist orthodontist will discuss with you in your teeth straightening consultation.

Why choose One
Devonshire Place
for orthodontics?

  • More than 10,000 cases completed
  • Specialist orthodontists have extra training and experience
  • More choice with our full range of systems
  • Private treatment = no waiting lists
  • Pay as you go
  • Free onsite parking
  • Open 6 days a week
  • Trusted by 200 referral dental practices across the Midlands

What To Expect

You’ll experience some sensitivity and tightness when
your brace is adjusted (about once a month) which will
last for around a day or so. You’ll still be able to eat
normally but try to keep away from hard food, chewy
food and fizzy drinks because they could damage the
appliance and your teeth. If you play a contact sport
you’ll need to wear a gum shield to protect your mouth
and the appliance.

 

Learn about our patient journey

Pros of fixed
standard braces

  • Safe and reliable
  • More than 50 years of design and improvement
  • Predictable results
  • Flexible and adaptable
  • Deliver predictable results in complex multi-disciplinary treatments
 

Elaine's Story

‘I wasn’t going to see anybody other
than Rob…I’d seen enough
orthodontists…the minute I walked in
I liked him.’

 

Eloise's Story

‘It’s definitely helped my confidence.
I don’t mind smiling normally
instead of having to smile awkwardly
with my mouth closed.’

 

Hugo's Story

‘The maximum amount of time was
2 hours and then I could just come here
straight away, so within the day of breaking
my brace I could get it fixed.’

 

Sarah's Story

‘He listened to what it was
exactly I wanted. What was best
for me as well.’

 

Pauline's Story

‘I know I can ask him
anything… I always feel very
comfortable coming and I enjoy
my visits.’

Meet our specialist

Dr Rob Slater

GDC No. 65931

BDS FDSRCS MOrthRCS MSc, Specialist in Orthodontics

  • Pioneering founder and former chairman of the British Lingual Orthodontic Society
  • Worked as an examiner, trainer, noted publisher and international lecturer
  • Began his career as a dental technician, creating orthodontic appliances

Find the answers to your questions here