Fixed Braces
A highly reliable way to achieve your dream smile.
Choose from lightweight, modern metal fixed braces and discreet ceramic braces that blend in with your smile. We also offer gold braces for patients who want a statement look from their braces!
Treatment Introduction
- Fixed braces treatment is overseen by our professional dentist, Dr Jack Acorn, who has a special interest in orthodontics.
- Discreet and metal fixed braces available.
- Suitable for serious cases of tooth misalignment and crowding.
Treatment objectives
- To straighten teeth into an aesthetically pleasing alignment that complements the whole face.
- To reduce small and large gaps in your teeth.
- To make brushing and flossing easier.
- To improve your oral health.
Why Patients Love Fixed Braces for Teeth Straightening
A Brand New Smile
Your brand-new smile will look symmetrical and completely in proportion to your lips, mouth, and face shape.
Predictable Results
The technologies we use to plan your treatment facilitate a predictable end result. Dr Jack Acorn will plan your treatment, taking every eventuality into account. We work with a renowned dental laboratory using high-quality materials to fabricate your lightweight, comfortable fixed brace.
Your Patient Journey
Consultation
If you are new to the practice, a full dental examination will need to be completed, including a set of X-rays. The condition of your soft tissues (gums and tongue) will also be examined before fixed braces can be prescribed.
We will discuss your orthodontic options, explaining the advantages and differences of our fixed braces and removable Invisalign® treatment. Once fixed braces have been identified as the favoured course of treatment, your dentist will take digital scans and photographs of your teeth using our state-of-the-art iTero scanner.
Your dentist will present you with a fully costed treatment plan. Once this has been approved, the dental lab can begin designing your braces.
Braces and Check-ups
We will fit your brace and make sure it suits your mouth shape. Your dentist must see you every 4-6 weeks to monitor your progress.
Maintaining the Results
Once your teeth have reached the desired position, the brace can be removed. Your dentist will provide you with a retainer to wear, preventing your teeth from moving after treatment.
Types of Fixed Braces Available
At Creffield Lodge Dental Practice, we offer a range of fixed braces designed to suit different preferences while delivering reliable and precise results.
Modern metal fixed braces
Lightweight and highly effective, metal braces are a reliable option for treating more complex orthodontic cases. They are durable and allow for precise tooth movement.
Ceramic fixed braces
Ceramic braces are designed to blend in with your natural teeth using tooth coloured brackets. They offer a more discreet option while still providing the same level of control as metal braces.
We will help you choose the most suitable option based on your clinical needs and personal preferences.
What Can Fixed Braces Treat
Fixed braces are a highly effective solution for correcting a wide range of orthodontic concerns.
They can be used to treat:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Teeth that are rotated or out of position
Because fixed braces apply continuous, controlled pressure, they are particularly effective for more complex cases that may not be suitable for removable aligners.
How Long Does Fixed Braces Treatment Take
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of your case.
Mild alignment concerns may take around 6 to 12 months, while more complex cases can take between 12 and 24 months.
During your consultation at Creffield Lodge Dental Practice, we will provide a clear estimate based on your individual treatment plan.
Regular check-ups every 4 to 6 weeks ensure your treatment progresses as expected.
Living with Fixed Braces
Fixed braces are designed to work continuously, so it is important to understand how they fit into your daily routine.
Eating and Drinking
Some foods should be avoided to prevent damage to the brackets, including very hard or sticky items. We will provide clear guidance on what to avoid during treatment.
Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing require a little more care with fixed braces. Special brushes and techniques can help you keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.
Comfort and Adjustments
You may experience mild discomfort after adjustments, which is normal and usually settles within a few days as your teeth begin to move.
Caring for Your Teeth During Treatment
Maintaining good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is essential.
- Brush thoroughly after meals
• Use interdental brushes where needed
• Attend regular dental check-ups
• Follow all guidance provided by your dentist
Good care helps ensure your treatment progresses smoothly and supports long term oral health.
Why Choose Fixed Braces Over Invisalign
Both fixed braces and Invisalign are effective orthodontic treatments, but fixed braces are often the preferred option for more complex cases.
Fixed braces may be recommended when:
- There is significant crowding or misalignment
- Bite correction is required
- Teeth need to be moved in a very controlled and precise way
- A predictable outcome is essential for more advanced cases
Because fixed braces are attached to the teeth, they work continuously and do not rely on patient compliance in the same way as removable aligners.
During your consultation at our Colchester practice, we will explain your options clearly and recommend the treatment that will achieve the best possible result for your smile.
Fixed Braces in Colchester
Creffield Lodge Dental Practice has helped many patients in Colchester and the surrounding Essex area achieve straighter, healthier smiles with fixed braces.
Our approach combines advanced digital planning with personalised care to ensure your treatment is both effective and comfortable.
We take the time to understand your goals and create a treatment plan that delivers balanced, natural looking results.
FAQs
Which type of fixed brace do I need?
Traditional fixed metal braces and ceramic braces both have fantastic benefits. Whilst traditional fixed braces are strong and less vulnerable to fracturing, ceramic braces are discreet, using tooth-coloured wires and subtle ceramic brackets to straighten your teeth.
We recommend ceramic braces to patients who feel self-conscious about wearing a metal brace and want a discreet appliance.
Are fixed braces better than Invisalign®?
This depends on how severely your teeth are misaligned. Fixed braces are better suited to highly complex orthodontic concerns, whilst Invisalign® can deal with anything from mild to complex problems.
Why choose Creffield Lodge Dental Practice for teeth straightening treatment?
As a forward-thinking private dental practice, we are committed to offering fair prices to our patients, particularly for procedures as important as teeth straightening with fixed braces. We also offer finance and a payment plan for patients who would prefer to split the cost of their treatment over a period of months.
The Practice Principal, Dr Jack Acorn, has invested in multiple digitised workflow systems and impression-taking technology designed to make the teeth straightening process straightforward and stress-free for patients. He has overseen countless fixed braces cases, and as a Platinum Invisalign® provider, he has a deep understanding of smile aesthetics and proportions.
Do fixed braces hurt?
You may experience mild discomfort after your braces are fitted or adjusted. This is temporary and usually settles within a few days as your teeth begin to move.
What can I eat with fixed braces?
You should avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage the brackets or wires. We will provide clear guidance on how to adjust your diet during treatment.
How do I clean my teeth with fixed braces?
Brushing requires extra care around the brackets and wires. Interdental brushes and good daily hygiene are essential to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.
How long will I need to wear fixed braces?
Treatment time varies depending on your case, but most patients wear fixed braces for between 6 and 24 months. Your dentist will provide a personalised estimate during your consultation.
Are fixed braces suitable for adults?
Yes, fixed braces are suitable for both teenagers and adults. Many adults choose discreet ceramic braces for a more subtle appearance.
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