Who carries out orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontists, dentists who have undergone several years of further specialist training and are registered as Specialists by the General Dental Council.

How long will treatment take?

Treatment times will vary depending on the complexity of treatment but the average treatment time is about 2 years, with appointments to check the braces every 4-8 weeks. After treatment is finished retainers need to be worn to keep your teeth straight.

What will happen on my first visit?

The first appointment is for an assessment only. If you are ready to start treatment then x-rays, impressions (moulds of the teeth) and photographs may be taken so a treatment plan can be made.

How is treatment paid for?

In most practices NHS orthodontic care for eligible children under 18 years of age can be provided at no charge if the need for treatment is above a certain level. You should however check with the individual practice regarding their NHS acceptance criteria but there is usually a waiting list for such treatment.
Only a few practices offer NHS treatment to adult patients and the majority of practices will treat adult’s on a private basis but again check with the individual practices. Any treatments involving aesthetic or invisible aligner braces are only available on a private basis. In some areas it is not always easy to find an NHS orthodontist particularly since limitations may be placed on availability of NHS funding and increasingly patients are opting for private treatment

Will treatment be uncomfortable?

There may be a few days at the start of treatment and after each adjustment when your month feels tender. Your orthodontist will advise you on how to deal with this discomfort which will soon pass.

Will I have to have teeth out?

Only if absolutely necessary. Tooth extractions as part of orthodontic treatment are required rather less frequently these days on account of advances in orthodontic techniques. New types of braces can enable orthodontists to take advantage of the growth of the patient’s jaw, creating small amounts of additional space in the dental arch. For some patients with greater degrees of crowding if enough room cannot reasonably be created in other ways, extractions will be needed and this decision is taken as part of the orthodontic assessment. Any extractions are normally carried out by your own dentist.