Orthodontics
Treatment FAQ –
What is orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is a way of straightening
or moving teeth, to improve the appearance of the
teeth and how they work. It can also help to look
after the long-term health of the teeth, gums and
jaw joints, by spreading the biting pressure over
all the teeth.
Why should I have orthodontic treatment?
Many people have crowded or crooked teeth. Orthodontic
treatment will straighten the teeth or move them
into a better position. This can not only improve
their appearance but also the way the teeth bite
together, while also making them easier to clean.
In some patients the upper front teeth can stick
out and look unsightly. These ‘prominent’ teeth
are more likely to be damaged, but orthodontic treatment can move them back
into line. In others, the way the upper and lower jaws meet can cause teeth
to look unsightly and lead to an incorrect bite. Orthodontic treatment may
be able to correct both.
When the teeth don’t meet correctly, this can put strain on the muscles
of the jaw, causing jaw and joint problems and in some cases headaches. Orthodontic
treatment can help you to bite more evenly and reduce the strain.
What is a removable appliance?
Simple treatment may be carried out with a removable
appliance (a plate that can be taken out to be
cleaned). It has delicate wires and springs attached,
which move the teeth using gentle pressure.
What is a functional appliance?
It is sometimes possible to change the way the
jaws grow, using orthodontic appliances. These
functional appliances use the power of your jaw
muscles and can help with certain types of problem.
What is a fixed appliance?
Often, teeth need to be guided more accurately
than they can be using a removable plate. So fixed
appliances are used. These have brackets and bands
temporarily stuck to the teeth. A flexible wire
joins all the brackets and allows the teeth to
be moved. It is not possible for the patient to
take the appliance out and so it is called a fixed
appliance. What is headgear?
As well as an appliance it is sometimes necessary
to wear headgear. You usually only need to wear
it in the evening or at night. Your orthodontist
will discuss whether it is necessary. It is very
important to wear it in the way the orthodontist
tells you otherwise treatment may not progress
correctly. What are ‘invisible braces’?
They are tough, clear
plastic ‘aligners’ (moulds)
that are used to straighten teeth. Several sets
of specially moulded, slightly different aligners
are made for each patient. Each set is worn for
two weeks before being replaced with the next one.
They are made from clear plastic, so they are nearly
invisible. This means that no one need know you
are straightening your teeth.
The aligners should be worn for 22 to 23 hours a day for the best results.
They can be easily removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. You
need to have all your adult teeth before you can have this treatment. Is orthodontic work permanent?
Even after retention, it is normal for minor
tooth movements to happen throughout life, so no
permanent guarantee can be given. However, it is
unusual for teeth to alter enough to need further
treatment. How much does it cost?
You can have orthodontic treatment under the
National Health Service or as a private patient.
National Health treatment is free for children
up to the age of 18 and students up to the age
of 19 based as long as there is a clinical need.
Other people entitled to free treatment are patients
on a low income, pregnant women and nursing mothers.
Everyone else has to pay the NHS charges. There
is no charge for treatment in hospital departments.
You will only be entitled to treatment under the NHS if your condition is serious.
Minor problems may be classed as cosmetic and would therefore be charged privately.
If you decide to have treatment privately, the orthodontist will be able to
estimate the cost of your treatment and give you details. It is always a good
idea to discuss the cost fully before treatment and, if necessary, have the
cost confirmed in writing to avoid any confusion. How do I care for my brace and teeth?
It is important to continue
to have your teeth checked by your dentist while
having orthodontic treatment. You also need to take
extra care of your teeth and mouth:
- Clean your
teeth carefully every day, including between
your teeth where you can. Appliances are delicate
and you need to make sure you clean them carefully
so that they do not break. Your dentist or
hygienist will be able to show you the special
techniques to use depending on the appliance
you are wearing.
- Cut down on how often
you have sugary foods and drinks. Avoid ‘snacking’ on
foods or drinks containing sugars, and on fizzy drinks. Also, sticky
and hard foods may damage the delicate
orthodontic appliances.
- Brush your teeth twice
a day with fluoride toothpaste and, if necessary,
use a mouthwash. Your dentist or hygienist
may recommend a fluoride toothpaste
or application for you to use. Look for
a product carrying the British Dental
Health Foundation’s
accreditation logo. This shows that
the product has been checked by a panel
of experts and does what it says on
the packet.
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