Fixed Braces
Expert Orthodontic Care at TwentyOneDental
At TwentyOneDental, patients are in safe, expert hands under the care of Specialist Orthodontist Dr. Aklen Abdurahman, supported by a dedicated team of professionals. Renowned for his precise standards and approachable manner, Dr. Aklen is highly sought after in his field. His multilingual proficiency in English, Turkish, and Bulgarian ensures accessibility for a diverse patient base, offering high-quality orthodontic treatment tailored to each individual’s needs.
A Beautiful, Straight Smile—At Any Age
Regardless of age, achieving a straight, confident smile is entirely possible. At TwentyOneDental, patients have access to a wide range of orthodontic treatments designed to align with personal goals, budgets, and time constraints. Whether correcting bite issues, jaw alignment, or gaps between teeth, our treatment plans are customized to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Gentle, Effective Teeth Straightening
Teeth straightening uses gradual, gentle forces to reposition teeth into their ideal alignment. Unlike treatments such as veneers or bonding, orthodontics preserves natural teeth without requiring alterations. Though the process takes several months, it enhances both aesthetics and dental health, ensuring long-term stability and function.
Why is a straight smile a healthy smile?
The aesthetic benefits of a wonderfully straight and neat smile are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the overall benefits of having straightening treatment.
Moving teeth into a straighter position frees any overlapping teeth, making them much easier to clean. Places where teeth overlap become perfect places for food debris to get stuck, making cavities and gum disease more likely. Teeth that are spaced as they should be make it much easier to floss and also makes it easier for your hygienist to remove any tartar and plaque from your teeth.
Orthodontics also focuses on ensuring your bite alignment is perfect. Your top and bottom teeth should mesh together when you bite down. Wonky teeth that have grown out of position can affect the whole row of teeth, meaning that some of the bite surfaces don’t align properly. This can lead to the wearing down of bite surfaces and also jaw problems. Having an aligned bite will prevent issues from escalating, keeping your teeth as fully functional and damage free as possible.
Your choice of straightening in Brighton & Hove
At TwentyOneDental, our ethos centres around you always being in the driving seat when it comes to your treatment. Our straightening treatments are no different. With our Digital technology, we can use 3D scans and images of your smile to preview what your smile will look like after straightening. Together, we can design your smile and make what you envisage a reality.
If noticeable braces have put you off from benefiting from straightening, we have a great range of discreet aligners and braces that blend in with your smile so you don’t feel self-conscious. We also have fast straightening solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialist area of dentistry focused on correcting the position of the teeth and jaws to improve both function and appearance. Treatment is used to straighten crooked teeth, close gaps and help the bite fit together properly. An orthodontist can assess whether treatment is needed by examining how the teeth align and how the jaws meet. If treatment is recommended, a variety of options may be available depending on the patient’s needs, including traditional fixed braces or more discreet choices such as clear aligners.
Can you get orthodontics on the NHS?
Only practices with an NHS Orthodontic contact can offer the treatment on the NHS and even then it is only free for patients under 18. NHS orthodontic treatment is assessed based off the need for treatment. If we believe a young patient will need orthodontic treatment, we will carry out the assessment during a check-up using a test called the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). We can then refer to a practice with an NHS contract or you may choose to opt for private treatment where there are more options including clear braces.
Does my dental insurance cover orthodontics?
Dental insurers rarely cover braces and aligners as they are classed as a private, cosmetic treatment.
Do I need a retainer after treatment?
Yes. Retainers are an essential part of orthodontic treatment. We provide clear retainers that you wear at night as well as a fixed wire retainer that fits at the back of your front teeth. Retainers prevent teeth from moving back out of position once the treatment has finished and also prevents natural shifting as you get older.
What are the differences between aligners and braces?
Braces are fixed and can only be removed by a dentist. Aligners are removable and can be taken out when you need to clean them after a meal.
We have a range of clear aligners that allow you to benefit from straightening treatment without them being noticeable. Aligners like Invisalign and Spark work in stages. You will have a set of aligners made where each set moves your teeth a small amount until you’re ready for the next set. Usually you need to wear each set for a couple of weeks, maybe longer if your teeth are being stubborn.
With braces, you only have the one set made. Your teeth are guided into position slowly using the wires that gradually force your teeth into their new position. It’s important that you keep up a good oral hygiene regime when you have braces as sugary deposits can have a habit of getting stuck to the braces – providing the perfect place for bacteria to develop.
Why do I need to see the dentist when I have straightening treatment?
Your general dental treatment still carries on when you have braces or aligners. We will still need to see you every six months to check on your teeth, gums and mouth. Your hygiene appointments are also more important than ever as keeping braces clean can be a bit of a challenge at first.
Do braces hurt?
When first having aligners or braces fitted, there can be mild discomfort as the forces get to work. Painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can help manage any aches in your jaw.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
The length of treatment depends on the severity of your case and the straightening system being used. We have braces that can straighten smiles in a matter of months, yet these braces are only suitable for mild misalignment. Treatment can start as short as six months and can also end up lasting years. We will always make it clear how long you should expect to wait before starting. However, the long wait is worth it as the results last for a lifetime.