Face
Dentistry
At Evolve Dentistry, we have many years’ experience looking after patients who have braces. We understand that getting braces can be a daunting prospect, particularly for our younger patients. It is normal to have questions or anxieties you would like to put to rest.
We have put together this list of a few of the most common questions we are asked about braces. It is our hope that you will find it useful, and that it will help ease any anxieties you have.
Will I need an anaesthetic (numbing medicine) when my brace is being fitted to my teeth?
No. Although your dentist will need to see all of your teeth and keep everything dry to make sure that the adhesive can effectively bond the brace to your teeth, it is not usual to need to be made numb to have a brace fitted.
Is having a brace to re-align my teeth painful?
As your teeth begin to move in your mouth, you may feel some small discomfort and your teeth may feel loose for a time. This is normal. If you feel the need, over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol are usually effective in tackling any discomfort. We do not recommend Ibuprofen, however, as it can sometimes slow down tooth movement.
Will my speech be affected?
Braces which are fitted to the outside of your teeth do not usually have any impact on your speech. If you are having braces which are fixed to the inside (or back) of your teeth, or if you have a removable brace, then it may take a few days for your tongue and mouth to get used to the new shape of the inside of your mouth. This means that your speech may sound strange for a few days, however you will quickly adapt and your speech will return to normal, usually within a week.
Will my mouth or lips look swollen when I’m wearing my brace?
It is completely normal to be concerned about your appearance while you’re wearing your brace – after all, appearance is one of the reasons you’re using it! Many people find that their lips feel swollen. The unusual feeling will pass once your lips and mouth are used to your braces being there, usually within a few days.
Your dentist will provide you with advice about what to do if your lips, cheeks, or tongue gets sore and the best way to deal with any discomfort.
How is the brace fitted?
First, your dentist will gently place a soft device called a retractor into your mouth to keep your lips and cheeks out of the way during the procedure. This can feel uncomfortable, but doesn’t hurt. Then the surface of your teeth will be cleaned using a gel, before the glue is applied and the ceramic bracket that will form part of your brace is fixed to the tooth. Lastly, a thin wire is fitted which connects to the brackets with tiny elastic rings or metal ties.
If you are having a removable brace, this will need impressions to be taken and then the brace will be fitted at a later appointment.
Are there any foods I should avoid?
It’s best to stay away from very hard foods (e.g. pizza crusts, sticky or chewy sweets) and we also recommend that you cut back on sugary sweets and drinks to aid your general oral hygiene.
How long will I need to wear a retainer for?
At Evolve, the price we quote is for both a removable and fixed retainer. A fixed retainer is bonded to the back of your front teeth. We then also make a removable retainer which is clear plastic and fits snugly over your teeth.
You will need to wear the removable retainer every night for the first six months, every other night for the following six months, and then at least two nights a week for the rest of your life. Although your retainers should last you for several years, they are unlikely to be the only set that you will ever need to have made.
Contact us today for any further braces-related questions, or to find out more about booking an appointment with us.
✨ “I’d definitely recommend Evolve.” ✨
When David first came to see us, he was unhappy with the appearance of his teeth and felt self-conscious about how wonky they looked.
He told us that his confidence had been affected so much that he would often keep his mouth closed when talking.
Like many patients, David was nervous about starting treatment, but our team took the time to listen, answer his questions and support him every step of the way.
Using teeth straightening followed by composite bonding, we helped David achieve the smile he had always wanted - and in just 9 months.
For David, the biggest change wasn’t just his teeth. It was feeling confident enough to smile, speak and be himself again.
Thank you, David, for trusting us with your smile and for sharing your experience.
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #straighterteetheveryday #straighterteeth #newpatients #naturalteeth #healthysmiles #smilemakeovers #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #adultbraces #adultbracesuk #gapsinteeth
🦷 How often should you visit the dentist?
It’s one of the questions we’re asked most often, and the answer might surprise you.
Many people assume everyone should visit every six months, but that’s not always the case. Some patients may only need to see us every 12 months, while others benefit from more frequent visits every three or four months.
The right interval depends on factors such as your oral health, risk of tooth decay, gum health and any ongoing treatment.
In today’s Two Thirty video, Richard explains why dental review appointments are tailored to each individual and how regular visits help us spot potential problems before they become bigger issues.
Take a look at the video to learn more, and if you’re unsure when your next review is due, our team will be happy to help.
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #healthysmiles #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #oralhealth #preventivedentistry #dentalhealth #smilemonth #newpatients
✨ Why are so many patients choosing Angel Aligners? ✨
If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth but are worried about noticeable braces, Angel Aligners could be the perfect solution.
In today’s video, Yasmin explains why patients love Angel Aligners. The clear aligners are comfortable, removable and incredibly discreet, meaning most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.
But it’s not just patients who love them.
As a dentist, Yasmin values the flexibility Angel Aligners provide. By carefully placing attachments on the teeth, she can achieve precise movements and help treat more complex cases than many people realise.
The result? A straighter smile with a treatment that fits around your everyday life.
Watch the video below to hear Yasmin explain why Angel Aligners have become such a popular choice for patients looking to transform their smile.
📩 If you’re considering teeth straightening, get in touch to arrange a consultation with our team.
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #straighterteetheveryday #straighterteeth #newpatients #naturalteeth #healthysmiles #smilemakeovers #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #braces #adultbraces #adultbracesuk #gapsinteeth
Are dental X-rays safe? 🤔
It’s one of the questions we’re asked most often - and in this video, Richard explains why modern dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation and play an important role in protecting your oral health.
Dental X-rays help us spot problems that may not be visible during a normal examination, including decay between teeth, infections, bone loss and other hidden issues - often before they become more serious.
At Evolve Dentistry, we only recommend X-rays when clinically necessary and always keep radiation exposure as low as possible.
Watch the video to hear Richard explain more. 👇
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #healthysmile #healthysmiles #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #dentalxrays #oralhealth #preventivedentistry #healthyteeth #dentalcare #patienteducation
Today is World Environment Day 🌍
At Evolve Dentistry, we’re always looking at ways we can reduce our environmental impact while continuing to provide high-quality patient care.
Over the years, we’ve introduced a number of changes within the practice
🦷 Using digital scanners instead of traditional impressions
📄 Reducing paper usage through digital systems and communication
☕ Choosing paper cups rather than plastic alternatives
🌱 Using environmentally friendly materials and products where we can
Modern dentistry is constantly evolving, and we believe small changes can make a big difference over time.
Thank you to our patients for supporting a practice that is always striving to improve - not just for our patients, but for the environment too. 💚
#WorldEnvironmentDay #Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #digitaldentistry #sustainability #environmentallyfriendly #oralhealth #paperlesspractice
Did you know that snoring can affect more than just your sleep? 😴
In this video, Maggie explains how snoring and mouth breathing can lead to a dry mouth - which may increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.
Saliva plays an important role in protecting your teeth and gums, so when your mouth becomes dry overnight, it can have a bigger impact on your oral health than many people realise.
If you struggle with snoring, waking with a dry mouth, or persistent bad breath, it may be worth speaking to a dentist.
📍 Portishead
📞 Contact the practice to arrange a consultation
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #healthysmile #healthysmiles #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #snoring #drymouth #gumdisease #badbreath #oralhealth #mouthbreathing #preventivedentistry
As Smile Month comes to a close, we’ve loved celebrating 50 years of promoting healthy smiles 🦷✨
The message behind Smile Month is simple, but important:
✔ Brush well
✔ Clean between your teeth
✔ Visit your dentist regularly
✔ Look after your overall health too
Prevention is always better than cure, and small consistent habits can make a huge difference over time.
Thank you for following along with our Smile Month posts this year - and thank you for continuing to support our practice and our team 💙
Here’s to many more healthy smiles to come.
#SmileMonth #SmileMonth2026 #HealthySmiles #PatientsFirst #OralHealth #Healthysmile #Dentist #Portishead #NorthSomerset #PortisheadMarina #Clevedon #Nailsea
