Removable Plates Removable plates are most commonly used in very young children who do not yet have their permanent teeth, but they can be used for all ages, including adults. We use removable plates to:

• Expand and create space in the jaws in cases of tooth crowding
• Correct cross bites
• Encourage forward growth of the jaws when required

Removable plates are usually worn full-time except for brushing your teeth. They come in a variety of colours, from completely clear to fluorescent with glitter!

Metal Braces These are the most common type of braces that we use for children and teenagers. Metal braces are made out of high-grade stainless steel or titanium and are the most durable braces available so they are most able to withstand the ‘rough and tumble’ of children and teenagers’ lives.

Ceramic Tooth-coloured Braces Tooth-coloured braces are the most common type of braces we use for adults and are made out of ceramic. They function the same way as metal braces but are much less visible, so generally all you can see is the wire. They are very popular with our adult patients! Over the last 10 years we have been using less and less ceramic braces as the options of clear aligners, like Invisalign, offer even better results.

Invisalign Invisalign is a method of straightening teeth that uses a series of custom-made clear plastic aligners which are worn over the teeth and changed by the patient every two weeks. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic that you wear over your teeth.

Teeth straighten gradually over a period of months. Invisalign aligners contain no metal brackets or wires and are comfortable. They are also removable for eating and tooth brushing. The best part about the whole process is that most people won't even know you're straightening your teeth. Unfortunately Invisalign is not suitable for all patients as it cannot provide orthopaedic bone movement or jaw repositioning, but our orthodontic team will be able to advise if this treatment is suitable for your individual case. 

Find out more about Invisalign here.