What are retainers and why are they needed?
Retainers are designed to keep your teeth straight and can either be removable or fixed to the teeth. Teeth can move after braces are removed if retainers are not worn. Orthodontists now generally recommend long term retention on a part time basis to minimise the risk of unwanted tooth movement even years after brace treatment.
What will happen on my first visit?
On the first visit a full examination of the face and teeth is carried out and records such as photographs, necessary x-rays and scans using our latest state of the art intraoral scanner for study models are taken. Following the examination, Dr Owens will study all the results and discuss the finding with you in detail. Dr Owens will discuss the various treatment options, how long treatment might take and the fees involved.
What will it cost?
This will vary depending on whether one or both arches require treatment, on the severity of the problem, the duration of the treatment and on the type of braces chosen. The fee is normally paid in an instalment scheme suit you and 20% of the treatment fee may be claimed against your income tax with a Med 2 Form.
Do I need to be referred by a dentist?
No, you do not need to be referred but if you have not been to see your dentist for some time, we may recommend that you see your dentist for a checkup before starting orthodontic treatment.
Will it hurt?
A degree of discomfort is likely to start with when the brace is fitted. You can expect some aching and tenderness in the gums as the teeth start to move, but this mostly wears off after a few days. Some further discomfort may be experienced when the brace is adjusted subsequently, but this depends very much on what adjustments have been made.
Will I need extractions?
There is little doubt that well-planned orthodontic treatment can both improve the bite and enhance a patient’s overall appearance. Every course of treatment needs to be tailored to the needs of the individual patient. For many patients, in order to get the best appearance and long-term result, extractions will still be part of the process. Extractions as part of orthodontic treatment are required somewhat less frequently than in the past on account of advances in orthodontic techniques. In reaching a decision on extractions, a full assessment of the patient’s face, teeth and state of development is essential.
What do I do if I have an orthodontic emergency?
Please ring the surgery and we can advise on the best plan for you. If reception is closed, please follow the instructions on www.bos.org.uk