Frequently asked questions

Questions about braces and orthodontic care

Orthodontists focus on correcting the position of your teeth and alignment of your jaw. Crooked teeth, overbites, uncomfortable chewing or gaps between your teeth could all be reasons to visit an orthodontist. If your dentist referred you to our orthodontic practice, it’s likely due to an issue with the alignment of your teeth or the way your teeth bite together.

You’re also welcome to visit us without a referral if you feel you’re unhappy with the appearance of your teeth for any reason at all!

At your first appointment we’ll carry out a full orthodontic examination and take some records. The examination involves looking at the soft tissue of your face and your profile, as well as looking into your mouth at the alignment of your teeth and jaw. We’ll take impressions of your teeth and may also take some X-rays and photographs. The X-rays show the roots of your teeth, their quality and position. They’ll also show us pictures of your jaw and any teeth that haven’t come through, or that are buried in the gums.

If you require orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist will put together a custom plan for you, and you can book your next appointment to start treatment.

You’ll be in the dental chair for approximately 15-30 mins.

If you’re under 18 and a UK or European Community resident, or you’re under 19 and in full-time education, you’re entitled to free NHS treatment. If you’re not eligible for free NHS treatment, the cost will depend on your treatment. Visit our Costs page to find out more about pricing schedule and our 0% interest finace plans.

You can contact us at any time to change it. Please note that if you miss your appointment, you’ll need to contact us to make a new one. If we don’t hear from you, we’ll assume you don’t want to go ahead with orthodontic treatment and close your file.

Yes. You need to bring a parent or a guardian with you to give consent before we move forward with braces or another treatment programme.

Most likely. We are proud providers of Invisalign® clear aligners and Incognito invisible braces - and have experience creating custom plans for children, teens and adults. They’re a great alternative to metal braces when you want a discreet option.

Invisalign® straightens your teeth without wires and brackets, using a series of clear, customised, removable appliances called aligners. Invisalign® aligners are designed to move your teeth in small steps to the desired final position using a sequence of custom-made aligners. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks and are only taken out to eat, brush and floss.