Before orthodontic treatment

What is orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is a catch-all term for the correction of irregular or crooked teeth. It isn’t just about straight teeth though. It can make a difference to your bite, appearance and overall health. This is easier in young children, as natural growth will usually aid the treatment, but it is also available for adults and modern techniques mean dentists can treat more patients to a much higher standard.

Not only do straight teeth mean a better, brighter smile, they are also much easier to look after, meaning the benefits are lifelong.

There are different types of braces available and we will discuss all the options with you; many are removable, some are fixed onto the teeth and some types are virtually invisible!

Straight, healthy teeth can be a reality for everyone, from children to adults alike and people of all ages can now take advantage of new technology to look and feel better and more confident.

Private treatment is available for both adults and children and we offer flexible options for payment. Modern braces mean we can straighten teeth quickly and efficiently, resulting in better smiles in less time.

What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?

A healthy and attractive smile can go a long way to helping you be more confident and nice, even teeth are easier to keep clean and promote healthy jaw function. Regular, corrected teeth are also much less likely to be damaged during sports or in accidents.

Who does orthodontic treatment?

A small number of dentists follow a formal postgraduate training programme and obtain further qualifications and training, specifically in orthodontics.

How do I know if treatment is needed?

Your family dentist will be happy to tell you whether orthodontic treatment would be beneficial for your teeth and explain what is involved in their correction. If your dentist is unsure, see an orthodontist for an opinion, as their extended training puts them in the best position to tell you what is possible and what isn’t.

Am I too young?

Some orthodontic treatment requires fully developed adult teeth, which usually appear between the ages of 10 and 14, although this isn’t always the case. We actually prefer to see children for two reasons: Firstly, certain problems are best addressed at this age, for example, a child with very prominent teeth may be teased at school, and is more at risk of damage to their teeth during sport and play. There are braces that can be used which harness natural growth to improve facial appearance and with it, confidence.

Other problems that are best treated early include top teeth becoming trapped behind bottom teeth at either the front or back of the mouth, as well as mild irregularities. This early intervention will make any treatment later on easier and more successful, and in some cases may even eliminate the need for future treatment altogether.

Secondly, it is possible to predict with reasonable certainty and precision what that individual’s future orthodontic needs are. This gives parents time to prepare financially for private treatment, or to explore NHS options. Remember, there may be long waiting lists for treatment via the NHS.

Have I left it too late?

Adult treatments are becoming more and more common as treatments evolve. Teeth will move at almost any age providing they are supported by healthy bones and gums. However, certain types of problems cannot be fully corrected without the aid of natural childhood growth. In these cases, a compromise plan from your orthodontist can produce a marked improvement. Occasionally, a combination of orthodontic treatment and surgery may be suggested to achieve the full correction of a bite.

As well as this, transparent braces and braces fitted behind the teeth have made orthodontic treatments acceptable and possible to an ever-increasing number of adults.

What can I expect at my first appointment?

Your initial consultation will involve a clinical assessment and a provisional treatment plan is likely to be provided, with a discussion on what possible options are available to you.

If you do decide to proceed with treatment, another appointment will be arranged ,so we can take pre-treatment records, which include models of your teeth, x-rays and photographs for a more detailed assessment and a final treatment plan.

A full explanation of the treatment and fees involved will be provided, as well as a written treatment plan, so you have all the information you need, and you feel comfortable going forward.