Nadim Orthodontic Clinic

Each person finds braces quite different. Placing braces takes a long time (about an hour). However, it is a relatively painless procedure. The following couple of days the teeth may be uncomfortable however they soon settle down and you get used to the new feeling. Patients generally adjust very quickly to the braces and before you know it is just another part of everyday life.

Removable braces must be worn 24 hours a day except when eating, swimming or playing contact sports Fixed braces are worn at all times as they are glued directly onto the teeth. Braces are usually worn for a minimum of 6 months but may in some cases be worn for up to 2 years. This will depend on the original problem, progress under the treatment and also on how co-operative you are as a patient.

A retainer is a brace which gives teeth the necessary support in order to remain in their new position. Retainers are worn at the completion of the active phase of orthodontic treatment. Retainers can again be fixed or removable and sometimes a combination of the two types is employed to guarantee a degree of stability. The removable retainer is usually worn through the night every night for at least 12 months and often for much longer. A fixed retainer is glued to the inside surfaces of the teeth so that it remains invisible and is then usually left in place for a minimum of 3 years and often for its lifetime which can be 5,10 or even 20 years.