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- What
is a specialist orthodontist?
- What does orthodontic treatment
involve?
- Will it be uncomfortable?
- Will I need to have teeth removed?
- What are the benefits of orthodontic
treatment?
- At what age should treatment be
considered?
- How much does orthodontic treatment
cost?
- What are the benefits of private
orthodontic treatment?
- Can I have invisible or tooth coloured
braces?
- What happens at the first appointment?
- Will my treatment be successful?
- Will my teeth stay straight?
- When can treatment start?
A specialist orthodontist is a qualified dentist who has completed three further years of postgraduate training in orthodontics. They have undergone specialist training in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Approximately 3% of dentists have undergone specialist training in orthodontics. Admission to orthodontic training is extremely competitive and selective.
Teeth can be moved into better positions in order to improve their appearance but also to improve the way in which the teeth bite together. All braces work on the same physiological principle using very gentle pressure to remodel the bone around the teeth. Treatment varies according to the type of problem and can take anywhere between a few weeks to two years to complete.
There are basically two types of braces - fixed and removable. A fixed brace is fitted to the teeth by your orthodontist and remains in place until treatment is complete. Removable braces clip onto the teeth and can be taken out for cleaning and contact sport.
Once the braces are fitted, we will see you at regular intervals throughout your treatment to carry out adjustments. The frequency of visits varies according to the stage of treatment and the type of brace used. Once braces have been fitted we will usually arrange to see you every 6-12 weeks.
The placement of braces is painless. You do NOT need to have injections in order to fit your brace. You can expect your teeth to feel tender for a few days after your brace is fitted. You will also experience some irritation on the inside of your lips and cheeks as the brace tends to rub for a few days until you get used to it.
No one wants to have teeth removed and at Malvern Orthodontics we will always try to avoid this if we can.
The extraction of teeth depends upon individual needs. For many people extractions are not necessary but for some it is unavoidable if the best cosmetic result is to be achieved. We will discuss the options available to you when you are ready to start treatment. If extractions are required as part of your treatment, these will be done by your own dentist.
The appearance of your teeth can have a dramatic effect on your smile and self esteem. Orthodontics can give you the benefit of enhanced confidence and improved facial aesthetics.
A healthy mouth feels better and looks better. Fresh breath and healthy teeth and gums are a valuable asset and orthodontic treatment can play an important part in helping our patients to achieve this. Orthodontic treatment can also help to reduce the risk of trauma to prominent teeth.
As well as having teeth that look nice, orthodontic treatment can also improve the function of your teeth by improving the way in which they bite together.
Treatment is available for both adults and children. There is no age limit on when teeth can be moved into new positions. In some cases it may be easier to change the bite whilst there is still growth remaining. Your orthodontist can advise you of what is possible in view of your age.
If you are eligible for orthodontics under the NHS, treatment is free of charge for patients who commence orthodontic treatment before the age of eighteen. There are charges for oral health products and replacement of lost/broken braces.
For private patients, fees vary according to the complexity of the treatment. Payment may be spread over the treatment period so that monthly installments are more affordable. A generous discount to the overall fee is available if you prefer to pay the full amount at the start of treatment.
Our private patients have longer appointments allowing more consultation time with the orthodontist and appointments are available outside of school/work hours. There is no waiting list for private treatment, unlike for NHS treatment.
A wider range of orthodontic materials & braces are available than are provided under the NHS. These can be more discreet and can produce improved results. The standard of orthodontic treatment at Malvern Orthodontics, whether carried out under private contract or under the NHS, is very high for all our patients.
Invisible or tooth coloured braces are available on a private basis only. The choices are the clear aligners which are nearly invisible, tooth coloured braces fitted to the front surface of your teeth or lingual braces which are fitted to the back surface of your teeth.
At your first appointment we may take x-rays, impressions of your teeth and photographs. These are taken to measure the size and shape of your teeth and jaws and help us to provide the best advice and the most appropriate treatment. The main aim of the first visit is to find out what your concerns are, assess the alignment of your teeth and give you the options as to what can be done in terms of addressing your concerns. You will have the opportunity to ask us any questions you may have.
One of the most important ingredients for a successful result is getting the right treatment plan, and this depends on training and clinical experience. All treatments at Malvern orthodontics are decided by experienced, qualified orthodontists; the decisions are made with the patient and everything is thoroughly discussed and explained to you.
Another important factor in the success of your treatment is the role that you play. You will need to look after your braces and adhere to the instructions provided in order to improve the chances of getting that result you are looking for.
At the end of treatment the orthodontist will provide you with retainers. These will help to keep your teeth in their new position and prevent relapse. However, your teeth are not set in stone, and some slight changes after treatment can occur; it helps to keep this to a minimum if you wear your retainers conscientiously.
Retainers can be either fixed or removable. Removable retainers are of two types; the most popular is the Vacuum Moulded retainer (VMR), which is made of clear plastic and is virtually invisible when worn. Some patients are advised to have a ‘Hawley’ type retainer, which has a plastic plate with wires to hold it in place. The orthodontist can advise you which type is most suitable.
Fixed retainers have a fine wire fixed to the back of the teeth. These do not show and do not need to be removed but are not usually available as part of NHS treatment.
For children, there are some treatments which should ideally be carried out early (less than 9 years); for example, if damage is being caused by the bite. Most children have their treatment once the permanent teeth have all come through, which is usually between 11 and 14 years of age. In some cases early treatment to expand the dental arches can avoid the need for extractions later. Adults can have treatment at any age.
The start of your treatment will depend on when the orthodontist feels you are ready to begin and on whether you choose to have your treatment carried out under the NHS or privately. Like most orthodontic practices we do have a waiting list for NHS treatment. For patients requiring private treatment we can offer appointments as soon as is convenient to you.
We hope we have covered the main issues that concern you, but should you need any further information please contact us on 01684 568086 and we will be pleased to help.
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