1. How do I arrange an appointment?
Just give us a call. Many patients take the initiative to arrange a consultation themselves, while others are referred to us by their dentist.
2. What will I learn from the initial examination.
The initial examination will allow us to answer the following questions:
Is there an orthodontic problem and if so what is it?
What needs to be done to correct the problem?
Will any teeth need to be removed?
How long will the treatment take to complete?
Is there an entitlement for treatment under the NHS?
3. Will I need to have teeth removed?
Possibly. New technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures which mean that removing teeth is not always necessary but it is sometimes required to achieve the best results.
4. Will my teeth straighten by themselves as they grow?
Unfortunatly no, in most people after the permanent molars appear the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.
5. How long will treatment take?
Your overall treatment will last anywhere from 8 months to 30 months depending on your individual requirements. If you require braces, the "average" time frame for wearing them is between 18 and 24 months.
6. Is treatment available on the NHS?
NHS treatment is available for most people under 18 years of age (before your 19th birthday if you are in full time education). You must be registered as an NHS patient with a dentist to qualify for NHS orthodontic treatment. Those who do not qualify for NHS assistance can pay for treatment as private patients.
7. Are there advantages to having private orthodontic treatment?
Yes. As we do not have to apply for funding from the NHS, there is less delay in starting your treatment and a wider range of appointment times are available. We can also offer a variety of advanced, more cosmetic and efficient appliances which are not available on the NHS.
8. How often will I have appointments?
Most patients in braces will be seen every 6 to 8 weeks. Where there is a requirement for more frequent monitoring we will schedule appointments accordingly.
9. Do braces hurt?
It is not uncommon to experience some discomfort when you have your braces fitted and tightened. Pain relief medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen will ease the discomfort.
10. Will the braces damage my teeth or jaw?
No.. The brace itself will not damage your teeth but you must remove plaque with regular brushing. It is also vital that fizzy drinks and sugary foods are avoided whilst wearing braces.
11. Are there foods I can't eat while I have braces?
Yes. Start on a reasonably soft diet until you get used to your brace. Harder food should be avoided, such as crusty breads, hard crisps, pop corn, pizzas with a hard base, sticky toffee's/sweets and chewing gum. We still want you to get your five a day so when it comes to eating fruit and veg chop them up and eat them on your back teeth. Try and keep fizzy/sugary drinks as a treat and if you must drink them then drink through a straw.
12. Can I still play sports while wearing braces?
Yes. We recommend a mouth guard while in fixed braces and that you take out any removeable braces during contact sports and swimming.
13. Do I need to see my dentist while wearing braces?
Yes. Regular check ups with your dentist are important while wearing braces. We work side by side with your dentis tto ensure a healthy and beautiful smile.
14. How often should I brush my teeth while wearing braces?
At least three times each day - after each meal and before going to bed. When you get your braces fitted we'll advise you what you need in order to keep your teeth and braces clean.
15. Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?
Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like a tooth with a simple filling. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth.
16. What if I have a problem?
If something breaks or if your braces are causing extreme pain you should call the practice. In many instances we can address any issues over the phone but where you require an emergency appointment we will make time for you.
17. What if I have a problem while you're closed?
If you experience a problem with your brace which is causing extreme pain outwith our normal surgery hours you should call the NHS 24 helpline on 111.
18. Can I schedule all my appointments after school?
No. However, because most appointments are scheduled 6 to 8 weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school time. We will of course try where possible to meet your scheduling needs.
19. Can I drop my children off for an appointment?
Yes, with exceptions. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check in with us before dropping off their child. It is necessary for the parent of a minor (16 years and under) to be present for the initial consultation visit.
20. Will I be charged if I miss appointments?
We require one full working days notice if you need to cancel an appointment. While we are aware that unforeseen circumstances sometimes lead to missing an appointment, after missing your second appointment without notifying us you will be charged a fee appropriate to the length of your appointment.
