Orthodontics is a specialist branch of dentistry aimed at producing ideal tooth alignment, improvement in the bite (occlusion) and good positioning of the teeth, lips and jaws within the face to produce improved facial aesthetics.
Can I be too old for treatment?
You are never too old for orthodontic treatment. Tooth movement with
orthodontic appliances can be achieved at any age. It is important
that all dental disease is stabilised before commencing treatment.
Your orthodontist can advise you about what is required.
How early can orthodontic treatment start?
Early orthodontic treatment at the age of 7-10 years can benefit in
a few situations such as:
- The correction of crossbites (see glossary of terms)
- Management of eruption problems
- Correction of incisor protrusion with functional appliances if there is significant psychological distress
The usual age to commence orthodontic treatment is
when all the baby (primary) teeth have exfoliated. This time-point
can vary widely between individuals but is usually between 11-14
years.
What type of braces are used?
A wide range of appliances are available including conventional
systems and more discreet invisible lingual appliances. Please see
the section on appliances for further details.
Is it necessary to extract teeth?
Orthodontic treatment can often be provided without extracting
teeth. Dental extractions are however required if there is
significant crowding and/or incisor protrusion. The relative
advantages and disadvantages of extraction will be discussed with
you during your consultation.
What are the risks of orthodontic treatment?
There are few risks in orthodontic treatment. Dental decay (caries)
can occur around orthodontic appliances if oral hygiene is not
maintained and if there is a high frequency of sugar intake in
between meals and before bedtime. We will advise you if your
cleaning is not optimal before such problems occur. Advice will also
be given how to clean your teeth with appliances in situ. It is
important that you follow this advice.
It is normal for the roots of teeth to shorten (root resorption) by
1-2 mm during treatment. It is extremely rare for this to cause any
long-term detrimental effects.
If the bone surrounding teeth (alveolar bone) is thin or has been
damaged by previous gum disease (periodontal disease) there is a
risk of recession occurring following orthodontic treatment. This
can be minimised by ensuring that all gum disease is treated before
starting orthodontics and keeping the teeth clean during treatment.
What are the costs?
Orthodontic treatment generally involves 1 year to 18 months of
treatment. The cost for orthodontics includes all the treatment,
repair of breakages, provision of retainers and their supervision
for one year after appliance removal. Treatment costs do not include
the cost of any treatment provided by your family dentist before,
during or after orthodontics.
A consultation generally costs £190 which does not include the cost
of radiographs (x-rays) or study models. If your family dentist has
recently taken radiographs, you are encouraged to bring these to the
consultation.
The cost of comprehensive orthodontic treatment itself starts from
£3900 for upper and lower jaw treatment depending on the type of
appliances that you choose and the treatment complexity. Fees are
payable in increments during the treatment period (0% finance) until
the appliances are removed. All fees will be fully explained with a
written quotation following your consultation so you are fully aware
of all costs.
How frequent are appointments?
The initial consultation will last approximately 60 minutes. This
gives sufficient time to undertake a comprehensive examination and
discussion in a non-rushed manner. Following this, appliances can
normally be fitted within a few weeks. A 60 minute appointment is
usually required to fit appliances. This is a painless procedure
that does not involve injections. Following this you will be
required to visit the practice for 15-30 minute appointments every
4-6 weeks.