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Can anybody be treated using orthodontic braces?
Yes, anyone can benefit from braces as long as the teeth and their supporting bone and gums are healthy – there is no age limit! Even if you have previously had orthodontic treatment, you can still change any imperfections.

Can I refer myself / family member or do I need to ask my dentist?
You do not need to be referred by your own dentist for a consultation….. refer yourself! Enter the details on the contacts page and our staff will speak to you directly.

What will happen at the first appointment?
The first appointment will take approximately 30 minutes. A brace will not be fitted at this time. We will use the time to take into account your own concerns, your dental development and your oral hygiene. Then assessing the face, jaws and teeth by taking dental study models (moulds), photographs and possibly some radiographs (x-rays) it will allow a diagnosis. Then we will be able to discuss the orthodontic treatment plan that will be necessary and the optimum time to start treatment. For those who are ready to start immediately, we will make an appointment to get the braces fitted. For patients who are not ready to start treatment, they will be reviewed at a later date.

How do you carry out orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment involves wearing a brace (appliance) that is specially made for you. Depending on the type, the appliance can move your teeth into position; guide the way your jaw grows, or even widen your jaw to make room for crowded teeth. Occasionally, it might be necessary to extract some teeth if your mouth is very crowded.

What are the different types of orthodontic braces?
There are two types of orthodontic braces, fixed and removable. Different combinations of braces may be used to treat individual cases. Removable braces are used for some treatments, and work by exerting gentle pressure on the teeth or by trying to alter the way the jaw develops. Fixed braces give more precise 3D positioning of the teeth by attaching brackets temporarily to them. Wires connecting all the brackets are then used for alignment of the teeth.

Will it make my teeth sore?
Quite possibly, but do not be discouraged. A few hours after fitting your brace your teeth may well feel tender and sore. This discomfort may last for three to four days and a mild analgesic, such as paracetamol, may be necessary. Most patients cope well and the mouth adapts really quickly to any changes once a brace is fitted.

How long will treatment take?
This depends on your age and the diagnosis of your orthodontic problem. Most people will wear their brace for about 15-18 months, shorter with simpler treatments. But you can make a difference by looking after and wearing your braces properly. Broken braces and missed appointments will slow your treatment down. What you need to remember is that this is a team effort and the success and speed of your treatment depends on the partnership between you looking after the braces and your orthodontist.

How often will I need to visit the orthodontist?
Generally your brace will need adjusting every 6 to 8 weeks. This interval may vary depending on the wires in place and the stage of treatment. There are early morning and evening appointments available, but we cannot always guarantee after school time slots for every visit.

What happens if something breaks?
If the brace breaks or becomes loose or if any wires are irritating, contact the practice for advice initially and we can see you as an emergency as soon as. A soft diet for the first few days is best and using orthodontic relief wax to cover any irritant areas is good as well. Outside of normal Orthoplus hours, there is always a specialist orthodontist to speak to by the mobile telephone number on the practice answering machine.

Who will provide my normal dental check ups?
Whilst you are having orthodontic treatment it is essential that you maintain your normal visits to your general dentist, even with any braces on.