What is a removable brace?

This type of brace can be taken out, which means you can easily clean your teeth and the appliance itself. However, to ensure successful straightening, you should wear it at all other times (even while eating and sleeping).

What is a fixed brace?

Fixed braces stay firmly in place and are only removed at the end of your treatment by your orthodontist. Brackets are glued to your teeth and a wire is passed through these to exert a force that will straighten your teeth.

As these braces cannot be taken out, you need to have excellent dental hygiene. 

What are retainers?

Made from a clear plastic, retainers are specially moulded to fit to your teeth after treatment. Unlike a brace, they don’t move your teeth, but they do prevent them from reverting back to their original position.

It is very important to make sure you wear your retainers to avoid undoing all the hard work that has gone into achieving your straighter smile.

What are the criteria for NHS eligibility?

In April 2006, the NHS introduced a new criterion called IOTN (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need) to determine the type of cases that qualify for NHS funded orthodontic treatment. You will be assessed at your consultation appointment by a specialist orthodontist who will advise whether or not you are eligible for NHS funded treatment.

What are my options if I am not eligible for NHS funded treatment?

If you are not eligible, the NHS will not fund your treatment but we can still treat you privately. If you do decide to have private treatment, benefits will include priority appointment times and the option of having less noticeable appliances.

Do you treat adults?

Yes! An increasing number of adults are discovering the benefits of orthodontic treatment, such as an enhanced smile and boosted confidence. All adult treatments are carried out on a private basis, so if you would like to make a free no obligation consultation with an orthodontist, just give us a call.

How much does a consultation cost?

We offer a FREE, no obligation, INITIAL consultation with one of our Specialist Orthodontists who will discuss with you all your concerns regarding your teeth and the different options that could be offered at our Practice. This includes:

• A complete assessment and diagnosis with your Specialist Orthodontist

• A fully designed and individually tailored treatment plan by your Specialist Orthodontist

• Photographs, X-rays & Scans of your teeth

• A further discussion with our treatment coordinator to explain your treatment plan, all payment options available to you and answer any further questions you may have.

And yes this is all FREE!!! 

How much does private orthodontic treatment cost?

The cost will depend on your individual case and the treatment option chosen. We can advise you of the actual cost after an initial consultation with the orthodontist, but a guide to prices can be found in our Fees section.

We offer our private patients the options of flexible interest-free monthly payment plan or low cost finance plans. This means you can spread the cost of your treatment. 

Can I have ceramic braces or Aligners if I am an NHS patient?

No, sorry. These are both treatment options that the NHS does not cover. Ceramic braces have brackets that blend in with your natural teeth and Clear Correct Aligners features a series of clear, removable aligners.