Seven frequently asked questions about teeth straightening in Stourbridge

If you’re looking for teeth straightening in Stourbridge, you may be trying to decide which orthodontic treatment would be right for you.

Although the Internet can be a great source of information, we would always recommend that you speak to a dentist who is experienced in orthodontic treatments in the first instance. Your dentist will look at your individual case, explain the different treatment methods – as well as their advantages and disadvantages – and make recommendations about which teeth straightening treatment they believe would be best for you.

Your initial consultation gives you the opportunity to ask questions and gain a fuller picture of the right course of action for you.

Here at Lion Dental Centre in Stourbridge, these are just a handful of the frequently asked questions we hear about teeth straightening treatments every day which may give you a starting point for your own research:

1. Are there alternatives to ‘traditional’ wire braces?

In a recent blog, we looked at the orthodontic treatments available here at Lion Dental Centre, including fixed clear braces and Invisalign aligners. As that article shows, modern orthodontic treatments for adults focus on offering discreet, fast-acting and affordable solutions. Although traditional wire braces are incredibly effective, we can now use braces with tooth-coloured wires and clear brackets, or clear aligners to straighten your teeth.

2. Can I have a brace through the NHS?

Teeth straightening treatment is available free of charge through the NHS to children under the age of 18. If you’re an adult with complex dental needs, you may be able to have a brace fitted under the NHS. However, if your case is less severe and you are worried about the appearance of your smile or a minor alignment problem, you will probably need to have orthodontic treatment through a private dentist.

3. What are your qualifications and experience as an orthodontist?

At Lion Dental Centre, anyone seeking teeth straightening treatments will see Francesca Dash. Francesca has a wealth of experience in fixed and removable orthodontics, having worked as a Clinical Assistant in the University Hospital of North Staffordshire Orthodontics Department for over 13 years and providing a range of orthodontic treatments for over 17 years.

Francesca has been an Invisalign-approved dentist for 17 years and is the only female provider in the UK to have gained ‘Diamond’ status with Invisalign, having completed over 2000 cases.

4. Will I have to have teeth extracted?

We will do everything possible to preserve your existing natural teeth and straighten your smile without having to carry out any extractions, although we will of course let you know if we feel an extraction would be the best course of action.

Brace systems like Six Month Smiles or Invisalign aligners can usually be used without necessitating an extraction.

5. How long will my treatment take?

How long your treatment takes will depend on your individual case, the degree of movement we need to achieve, and the type of treatment you’re having. We will explain how long your treatment will take once your treatment plan is put together.

Minor teeth straightening can be carried out in as little as four to nine months with a system like Six Month Smiles, while more complex cases can take anywhere between nine and 24 months with Invisalign.

6. How often will I need to attend appointments?

The number and frequency of your teeth straightening appointments will depend again on which brace or aligner system you have. Typically, appointments occur four to eight weeks apart once your treatment has started however, this can vary.

7. How much will my brace cost?

The cost of your teeth straightening in Stourbridge at Lion Dental Centre will depend on a number of factors, from the type of treatment to the complexity, duration and number of appointments you need.

Before you give the go-ahead to any teeth straightening treatment, we would give you a full breakdown of the treatment plan, including the proposed costs. Invisalign treatment starts from as little as £1495.

To find out more about teeth straightening in Stourbridge at Lion Dental Centre or to book an initial consultation, please call us on 01384 376 336.