Your Guide to Getting Braces: Before, During and After Treatment

Getting braces is a simple process, but can understandably prompt many questions. Concerns such as “what age can you get braces” and “how long does it take to get braces fitted” are common and, without the right answers, patients might find themselves daunted by the prospect.

At Hove Dental Clinic, we’re experts at working with nervous patients, and understand the anxieties which might come with preparing for braces. Below, we have outlined some key points to be aware of before, during and after getting your braces.

What Is the Best Age to Get Braces?

Getting braces is often associated with your teenage years. According to the NHS, the ideal age to get braces is around 12 or 13, when the jaw and mouth are still growing, making teeth alignment quicker.

However, there is no age limit for getting braces. Although free orthodontic treatment is only available on the NHS for patients under the age of 18, there are several options available for adults who wish to straighten their teeth with braces.
At Hove Dental Clinic, we offer alternatives for all ages. For minor adjustments, our Cfast treatment is a quick and simple way to straighten teeth with no impact on aesthetics, due to the discreet appearance. Similarly, the Smilelign System is a fantastic, non-invasive way to gently reposition teeth using removable aligners.

What Are the Steps for Getting Braces?

Depending on the type of braces, there will be some variation in the process and how long it takes to get braces fitted. Even with traditional braces, no two mouths are the same. This means that every procedure can differ slightly. 

However, the steps for getting metal braces generally take around one to two hours, and is as follows:

1. Ahead of putting on your braces, your orthodontist will ensure that your teeth are properly cleaned and dried.

2. The metal brackets will then be glued onto your teeth (usually both top and bottom). This is carried out using a small amount of non-toxic dental glue on each tooth, which is set using a blue light before the bracket is applied.

3. Metal bands are placed around your back molars, once again using dental glue, to anchor the braces.

4. Finally, your orthodontist will attach the archwire to the brackets, using a small rubber band (ligature) to hold the wire in place. The end of the archwire is trimmed to ensure it does not rub against your gums.

Once your braces have been applied, you will return periodically to have them readjusted and tightened, depending on the rate at which your teeth are moving. This might involve replacing the current wires or tightening the bands.

Generally, you can expect to wear your braces for between one to three years before they can eventually be removed and you can show off your brand-new smile.

Caring For Your Mouth After Getting Braces

Once you have braces, it is important to follow the guidelines and medical advice outlined by your orthodontist. Specific recommendations may vary depending on whether you have metal or ceramic braces, for example, but there are several simple steps you can take to minimise discomfort and future issues:

• Pain relief: Although getting braces is generally painless, you might find that you have some slight discomfort in the early days. To reduce headaches or jaw pain, you can take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen. If you find that your cheeks are sore from the metal rubbing, you can use orthodontic wax to protect tender areas.

• Cleaning: Maintaining a consistent and thorough dental hygiene routine is essential to keep your teeth clean and to care for your braces. The usual rules apply, but additional care should be taken as it is easier for food particles to get stuck. Brush gently for two minutes twice daily, and floss with traditional dental floss or a floss threader. You can also rinse with mouthwash to dislodge food in any tricky-to-reach areas.

• Diet: When you have braces, it is highly recommended to avoid certain foods, particularly those which are especially crunchy, sticky or hard. This might include foods such as apples, gum and popcorn. Sugary foods can also pose a significant problem as they lead to plaque build-up and cause tooth decay.

How Much Does Getting Braces Cost?

There is some variation in the cost of getting braces, depending on factors such as the age you are, the type of braces and the clinic where you’re getting them. 

For example, in private clinics, the cost of metal braces can be between £1,500 to £3,000, whilst lingual braces are often more expensive, priced between £3,000 to £10,000.

Speak to Us About Braces

To find out more about our competitive pricing for different types of braces, and for reliable advice, diagnosis or treatment, contact our friendly team today.