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.

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.