Cosmetic Orthodontics

For a great smile in less time with less fuss, orthodontics is accessible to all.

Straightening Your Teeth

Teeth straightening or orthodontics has always been considered just for children. We straighten out their teeth and take advantage of their growth phases to optimise the care. However, it is possible to straighten your teeth whatever your age and more people are now considering this as an option.

When teeth are crooked in the past, we may have cut tooth tissue away to provide a crown or maybe a veneer so we can provide a straight smooth smile. However, we know that damaging the tooth can, in time, lead to the loss of a tooth and certainly a lifetime of treatments. The alternative, straightening them, delivers a smooth aligned smile with your teeth intact and no need for endless changes of crowns in your lifetime.

Straightening teeth is now a real possibility for many people and it is so much more convenient than it ever was with different systems and methods for tooth straightening.

There are also a range of other cosmetic dentistry options, all designed to help you achieve a brighter, fresher smile

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  Tooth Coloured Braces

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  Invisible Braces

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  Conventional Orthodontics

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Frequently asked questions

What will happen at the first appointment?

Once you have had an initial consultation to help you decide whether orthodontics is for you, a ‘records’ appointment will be booked for you. At this appointment, (which lasts around half an hour), we’ll take a series of photographs, and possibly x-rays, before talking through your options for treatment to give you the smile you are looking for. We will also discuss how long your treatment will take, and what the financial investment will be. Occasionally, for more complex treatments, a second visit is needed to finalise your treatment options.

What is it like having a brace fitted?

A removable brace is fitted very easily by clipping it onto selected teeth. There is no discomfort involved. Fixed braces are simply “glued” onto the teeth. There is no need for an anaesthetic injection.

Can you be too old for braces?

No, age is not a factor, only the health of your gums and bone, which support your teeth. About one third of our orthodontic patients are adults and that number is still growing!

What foods do I avoid during treatment?

Very crunchy and sticky foods can break your brace. Toffee and chewing gum must be avoided. Really enjoyable hard foods can be chopped up and chewed gently.

What types of braces are there?

Fixed braces – these are usually bonded to the tooth surface. These can be metal or tooth coloured. Lingual fixed braces – these are mounted behind the patient’s teeth, but are only available in selected cases. Invisible braces – used for selected adult cases and for children who are excellent in managing their oral hygiene. Removable – this type of brace can be taken out.

How long will the treatment take?

This depends on how much work there is to do. Fixed brace treatment can take between 12 and 24 months, but longer if the problem is particularly severe. If braces are broken frequently this can prolong the treatment time.