Adelaide Braces

Braces use constant, gentle pressure, which, over time, move teeth into their proper positions. The braces are at work every moment during orthodontic treatment. The two main components of the braces are the brackets that are placed onto the teeth and the main archwire that connects them.

The bracket is a piece of shaped metal or ceramic that we affix to each tooth and acts like a handle on the tooth. The brackets then allow Dr Duncan and Dr De Angelis to move each tooth, 3 dimensionally, into its correct position. The archwire is shaped to reflect the "ideal" bite. In other words, it reflects the way your teeth will look after treatment.

Metal braces

 Metal braces are the most popular with our younger kids and teenagers. Improvements in braces design and function, particularly with self-ligating braces like Damon and In-Ovation, have resulted in improved levels of patient comfort and treatment speed.  

Ceramic braces

Ceramic clear braces, which are much more discreet, are the most popular with adults and some teenagers. These braces are made of materials that blend with the natural tooth colour, so that they are harder to see. At Duncan Orthodontics we place the ceramic brackets on the upper front 6 teeth as these are the teeth seen when we smile. 

Not every patient is a candidate for the ceramic clear brackets - if you come to see us and you need braces, please ask if the ceramic brackets are suitable for your treatment. We now have clear braces in both the Damon and In-Ovation self ligating systems.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth and are sometimes requested by patients because they are unnoticeable to the eye. The lingual bracket system allows us to treat patients who would prefer a more discreet option but are not suitable for Invisalign. They address the six upper and six lower teeth revealed when you smile. Treatment time typically lasts 4-6 months, but it may be a bit longer depending on your specific treatment plan. Not everyone is a candidate for lingual braces, please ask at your initial appointment if lingual braces are suitable for your treatment.

Full lingual braces can be used for more complex cases, with treatments extending to up to 24 months, although many of these problems we now treat with Invisalign, which offers a more comfortable 'invisible' alternative.

For another discreet tooth straightening option that doesn't involve braces, click here to learn about Invisalign.