Dental Braces in Central London

Braces Treatment

Preparing for Dental Braces

The time it takes from the initial consultation to having braces fitted can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of your orthodontic issues, any necessary pre-treatment dental work, and the availability within our London Clinics.

Initial Consultation:

Schedule an appointment with an orthodontist. You may need a referral from your dentist or you can directly make an appointment with an orthodontic specialist.

This is the first appointment where the orthodontist will examine your teeth, jaws, and facial structure. X-rays, photographs and discuss potential treatment plans. This appointment typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

Treatment Planning:

Based on the examination, the orthodontist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. They will discuss the type of braces that would be most suitable for your case, which can include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, or clear aligners, Invisalign.

Where traditional teeth brackets are considered the best option, the process of attaching brackets is generally standardized, but adjustments are made for each individual based on their unique dental anatomy and treatment plan. The orthodontist carefully plans the placement of each bracket according to the specific needs of the patient’s case. The size and type of brackets, as well as the archwire material, may also be adjusted based on individual factors.

Discussion of Treatment Plan and Cost:

The orthodontist will discuss the recommended treatment plan with you, explaining the estimated duration, expected outcomes, and any potential complications.

They will also provide information on the cost of the treatment, as well as payment options and insurance coverage.

Preparation for Braces:

If there are any pre-treatment dental procedures required, such as extractions or cavity fillings, additional time may be needed. The duration of this step can vary based on the complexity of the pre-treatment procedures.

You may also be given instructions on maintaining good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment.

Braces Fitting:

Once the treatment plan is finalised and any necessary pre-treatment work is completed, the actual fitting of braces or delivery of aligners can typically be done in a single appointment. This appointment may last approximately 1 to 2 hours.

If you are getting traditional braces, the orthodontist will attach brackets to each tooth using a special adhesive. Then, archwires are threaded through the brackets and secured with elastic bands or other fasteners.

If you are getting clear aligners, a series of custom-made aligners will be provided to you, and you will switch to a new set at regular intervals.

In total, the process from the initial consultation to having braces fitted may take several weeks to a few months, depending on the factors mentioned above. It’s essential to discuss the estimated timeline with your orthodontist during the initial consultation, as they can provide a more accurate assessment based on your specific case. If you are an adult you may find the information within A guide to getting braces at any age of use, it is worth noting that Whites Dental specialise in adult treatments and not childrens.

Keep in mind that orthodontic treatment is often a long-term process, and adjustments will be necessary throughout the treatment period. Regular follow-up appointments for adjustments and progress checks are integral to the success of the treatment.

Adjustment Appointments:

After the initial fitting, you will need periodic adjustment appointments. During these visits, the orthodontist will make necessary adjustments to the braces or aligners to ensure progress according to the treatment plan. Adjustments may involve tightening wires, changing bands, or providing new sets of aligners. Each individual will require bespoke adjustment periods and the time wearing braces will also depend on the specifics of the treatment, you can discover more about the time it takes to straighten teeth through having a consultation with one of our experienced London Dental team.

Follow-up Care: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for the success of orthodontic treatment. The orthodontist will monitor your progress and address any concerns or issues that may arise.

Maintenance and Retention: After the active phase of treatment is complete, you’ll likely need to wear retainers to maintain the new position of your teeth.