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During your first visit you will meet our team and have the opportunity to ask us any questions you may have. We will learn why you would like to have orthodontic treatment and will give you advice on the most suitable options for you. We will also take photographs, and in most cases, initial x-rays of your teeth. Our Treatment Coordinators will then discuss next steps, such as treatment timelines and your next appointment dates. No braces are put on your teeth at this appointment.
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No. As braces are fitted without the need for injections, it is a fairly painless procedure. You may experience some discomfort for a few days afterwards but this is simply managed with paracetamol. We also advise that you eat soft food for the first few days and avoid hard or sticky foods during the course of your treatment.
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As most braces are fitted to the outside of the teeth, speech will not be affected. If you wear a removable brace for a time before your fixed braces, you may notice a slight lisp for around 1 week as you get used to wearing your brace. After this, your speech will return to normal.
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We recommend that you avoid fizzy drinks and limit fruit juice to once per day. We also recommend that hard or sticky foods such as toffee, chewing gum, and hard apples are avoided. A balanced healthy diet is the best option.
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The vast majority of patients will have no marks on their teeth following treatment. However, a small number of patients may have faint marks if treatment guidelines are not followed. It is important to brush your teeth well, use fluoride mouthwash and avoid fizzy drinks during treatment.
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You can continue to play sports during treatment. We have a range of orthodontic mouth guards available to purchase at our practice. You will typically have the same mouth guard for the duration of your treatment. This can then be replaced with a professional mouth guard after treatment. Please ask about this after treatment.
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Yes. Orthodontic treatment should not stop you playing your instrument. However, during the first week of treatment your brace may rub the inside of your lip causing mild discomfort. After this, you will be able to play your instrument as normal.
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Retainers should be worn for life as there is no other guarantee to keep teeth straight. Once you stop wearing retainers, teeth move. There are currently no predictors who it will happen to and by how much you will be affected. Therefore, everyone is given the same advice.
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An invisible, permanent retainer can be fitted to the inside of your front teeth. This consists of a fine wire glued to the teeth which will remain indefinitely. You must maintain this retainer by regular flossing and regular review with your general dentist.
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You should phone the practice immediately. We will then schedule an emergency appointment to have it fixed. We recommend that hard and sticky foods are avoided during treatment to prevent damage to your brace. Breaking the brace increases the time the brace is on the teeth.
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Yes. We recommend you remain registered with your normal dentist and attend routine dental check ups every 6 months.