’Braces’, also commonly called “railway tracks”, refer to the metal brackets, archwires and auxiliaries that are used in orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth. They are also known as fixed appliances.
Brackets are the tiny attachments that are bonded to the teeth, where they serve as handles of attachment to engage the archwires that contains the stored energy for tooth-moving forces.
By engaging the archwires with the brackets in a special way, the tooth-moving forces are transferred to each tooth, causing teeth to move. This engagement is called ‘ligation’ and it refers to the tightening of the braces that occur at each follow-up appointment for someone who started orthodontic treatment. Ligation may be carried out using small coloured rubbers or thin ligature wires.
At Precision Orthodontics, the steel brackets are extremely small with a very low profile (flat). These single-wing brackets are amazingly comfortable and highly technical providing Dr J with considerable customisation for individual tooth movement and precise results.
Ceramic brackets on the upper 6 teeth provide a more aesthetic option (used in combination with the steel brackets), and sometimes all teeth may have these ceramic brackets to provide maximum aesthetics. Ceramic brackets unfortunately have a higher profile (still comfortable, but not as comfortable as the steel brackets), they are less technical, and treatment may take slightly longer when using them.
Another option offered is active self-ligating steel braces (e.g. “Speed®” braces) where these brackets do not require constant ‘tightening’ but remain tight all the time. Follow-up appointments are less frequently required (ideal for long-distance treatments). Self-ligating ceramic brackets are also available.
A bracket-free option includes the use of clear aligners (no brackets, arch-wires or auxiliaries e.g. “Invisalign®”). This is the most aesthetic option, but this appliance is less customisable for finishing adjustments compared to the fixed braces. This option is also ideal for long-distance treatments.
All materials are imported from the USA, and the prescriptions used in this practice is the result of many years of research and experience and have been used with a high success rate and exceptional outcomes for many years.
The pictures below are examples of what a normal bite and tooth alignment looks like. You may compare your teeth to these:
Amazing. Felt a strong sense of confidence
Laruen
Wonderful practice, friendly staff, and amazing atmosphere!
Leigh
Precision Orthodontics is such a great team. Very skilled and passionate about the work they do. It showed in my results, and also throughout the course of my treatment in all aspects, from the harmonious environment to the support, dedication, and commitment received by all. The treatment felt effortless and non-invasive while connecting with great people who know everything there is to know about their field. Special thanks to Inke who made the process even more comforting through a pandemic, managing any challenges or concerns along the way.
Leanne
Our experience with precision orthodontics was one of the most incredible ever. From the moment you walk through the door you are greeted with the utmost friendliness and professionalism. The rooms are absolutely impeccable and state-of-the-art equipment is used.
Karen Joannides
Many thanks Dr Van Den Berg and Team. Luke’s teeth look great! Really appreciate all your help and care!
Sam
The team at Precision Orthodontics is equal parts kind and professional. Perfectionists who are passionate about people. As someone who wanted to get braces quite late in life, I honestly dreaded starting the journey. The Precision Orthodontics team made the entire process a thousand times worth it. I’m now 2 months away from finishing my treatment and highly recommend them to anyone who is ready to start their journey
N. Smit