Orthodontics (Braces)

The initial visit is a consultation with the orthodontist to discuss problems with the teeth and how best to align them. Clinical records such as X-rays, impressions and photos of the teeth help in an accurate diagnosis and planning of the treatment and type of braces for you.

Subsequent appointments involve insertion of the braces. This may take between one to three visits to complete depending on the type of braces.

After the braces are in the mouth, you will be reviewed and your braces adjusted every four to eight weeks.

Treatment with fixed braces usually takes between two to three years, although it may sometimes be shorter and longer depending on the complexity of the case.

With fixed braces, your speech should not be affected and you should be able to eat almost normally. You only need to avoid biting on large hard pieces of food (e.g. biting into an apple) to prevent dislodgement of your braces.

There are some appliances such as lingual braces and removable braces. These can affect speech temporarily for up to a week.

If you play a musical instrument with a mouthpiece, it may take you one to two weeks to get accustomed to playing it with your braces on.

Initially, there may be some discomfort and feeling of 'tightness'. Your teeth feel 'sore' because they are moving into alignment. After a few days, the discomfort lessens as you get used to them and as your teeth get straighter with time.

Occasionally, the inner side of your cheeks or lips may get an ulcer from rubbing against the braces. If the ulcer is severe or bothers you, please let your orthodontist know and schedule for an earlier appointment.