Types of braces

At No1 The Orthodontic Specialists, we offer a range of orthodontic appliances to create your stunning new smile. We will recommend the right type of braces for you at your initial consultation, but here’s a brief explanation of what each type of braces is like.

Traditional fixed braces

Fixed braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment we offer, and give an effective and affordable solution for your smile. Traditional metal braces use small brackets attached to the front of your teeth and connected with thin archwires and elastic bands.

Gentle pressure applied via the archwires and elastic bands guide your teeth into the desired positions. Depending on your individual needs, fixed braces treatment takes anywhere from 6-24 months.

Fixed braces are the only brace option we have available for patients being treated under the NHS.

Types of braces

Clear braces

If discretion is your priority, then you’ll appreciate our clear braces. These use ceramic brackets which blend in with the natural colour of your teeth, making them easier to conceal throughout treatment. Clear braces work just as effectively as metal fixed braces, but are much less visible.

Clear braces use the same system as traditional fixed braces – brackets are fitted to the front surface of your teeth, and archwires and elastic bands help to apply gentle pressure to your teeth to guide them into position.

Types of braces

Lingual braces

If the thought of being seen with braces is what’s keeping you from transforming your smile, lingual braces could be the perfect solution. Although the brackets look much like traditional fixed braces, no one will be able to see them because they’re fitted behind your teeth.

Lingual braces are customised to your mouth, which helps them to be more efficient, effective and comfortable to wear.

At No1 The Orthodontic Specialists, our Specialist Orthodontists are experienced in the Win lingual appliance system.

Types of braces

Invisalign® AND SPARK clear aligners

If you want to avoid wearing traditional braces altogether, we have an alternative. Clear aligners, such as Invisalign® and Spark, straighten teeth using virtually invisible, clear plastic aligners. These custom-made aligners fit over your teeth like a thin mouthguard and gradually move your teeth into position.

Unlike fixed braces, clear aligners can be removed for eating, brushing and flossing, although for optimal results it is recommended you wear your aligners for 20-22 hours per day.

Clear aligner treatment with Invisalign® or Spark typically lasts between 9-18 months with each aligner being replaced weekly and regular reviews with your orthodontist approximately every 12 weeks.

More about Spark

Types of braces

Fast braces

If you have a mild crowding or spacing problem, then you could achieve the perfect smile in as little as six months with clear braces or aligner systems, with our expert orthodontists guiding your treatment to achieve the result you want.

Types of braces