WHAT DOES ORTHODONTICS MEAN? 

Orthodontics is the term given to the branch of dentistry concerned with diagnosis prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The aims of orthodontic treatment are to provide an attractive smile with healthy teeth and jaw joints. 

WHAT IS AN ORTHODONTIST? 

An orthodontist is a dentist who has undergone specialised training to acquire the advanced qualifications and specialised skills required to give their patients first class treatment. Orthodontists continually upgrade these skills by attending postgraduate courses and conferences to ensure they have and can use the best available techniques and materials. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT? 

• Better appearance of teeth, smile and face
• Improved self esteem and self confidence
• Cleaner, healthier teeth
• An even bite for improved jaw alignment and function

Ideally, children should be seen for their initial assessment between the ages of 7 and 10 years. This will allow the child’s growth and changing dentition to be monitored until all baby teeth have been lost and treatment can begin. Obviously all cases are individual, and some children may start treatment at a younger age. However, you are never too old to start orthodontic treatment, and people of all ages can reap the benefits. Treatment may take a little while longer in adults, but the end result is just as pleasing. 

WHAT DOES TREATMENT INVOLVE? 

Usually, treatment involves wearing braces fixed to your teeth for between 18 and 24 months. The procedure is painless, although some tenderness may be felt as the teeth start to move. In some cases you may be required to wear more than one brace. During the treatment time the teeth and braces should be kept scrupulously clean, and there are a few foods to be avoided such as hard, chewy and sticky things. Full instruction will be given when you have your brace fitted. 

HOW MUCH WILL TREATMENT COST? 

The actual cost of treatment depends very much on the individual case and depends largely on the length and complexity of treatment. .Unfortunately, the National Health Service sees orthodontics as a low priority in their budget. Although certain types of cases are treated under the NHS, the majority of patients at our practice are treated under private contract. This enables us to use the very best of materials and techniques available, including clear and gold brackets for fixed braces. If you are unsure about NHS provision, children under the age of 18 may have an initial assessment free of charge. We also provide several saving schemes towards the cost of orthodontic treatment.