Fixed brace treatment can take between 12 and 24 months, but longer if the problem is particularly severe. If braces are broken frequently this can add a lot of time to the total. Combination treatment for difficult cases can take as long as 48 months. Retainer braces It is important to realise that once a brace is removed the teeth can drift back towards their original positions. They must, therefore, be held in their new positions for a long time with retainer braces until they have settled.
Retainers are either removable appliances or thin wires stuck onto the tongue side of the teeth.
The brace will not mark the teeth. If dental plaque is allowed to become thick around the brace the plaque itself may damage the teeth. Instruction will be given on the use of special brushes. A daily fluoride mouthrinse can be used to harden areas that are very difficult to clean. Certain foods and drinks may also lead to damage.