Jonathan Alexander Abt is an experienced orthodontist who has treated many complex cases. This article will provide an overview of key considerations prior to undergoing orthodontic work, providing practical pointers to help patients have the best experience possible.
The British Orthodontic Society is the voice of UK orthodontics. Most orthodontists and dentists practicing in the field in the UK are members of the organisation. The British Orthodontic Society recommends that anyone considering undergoing orthodontic treatment seeks advice only from dentists specifically trained to carry out work in this complex field.
Children who require orthodontic treatment typically begin around the age of 12 or 13, once all of their permanent teeth have emerged. In some cases, it may be advantageous to start treatment earlier. In orthodontics age is no barrier to treatment, and there has been a marked increase in adults seeking orthodontic treatment in recent years.
The NHS does not usually cover adults for orthodontic treatment. Therefore, most individuals aged 18 plus who receive orthodontic treatment typically pay privately. The upside of this is that it provides a wider range of braces that can be used. Expectations from treatment may be different in adult patients. It is important for patients to make their orthodontist aware of their specific objectives when discussing the various treatment options.
Patients or parents discussing treatment options with their orthodontist or dentist are likely to want to know:
- Whether retainers will be required and, if so, how long they will need to be worn for
- How much the treatment will cost and whether payments cover any breakages and retainers
- How long treatment will take
- What risks are associated with the treatment
The teeth form part of a complex biological system involving facial muscles, jaw bones and gums. Since the orthodontist is solely responsible for taking care of braces, patients must also pay regular visits to their dentist throughout the course of treatment to receive support and advice to help keep their teeth and gums healthy and clean. Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment generally need appointments every four to ten weeks. It is crucial for anyone considering orthodontic treatment to consider their availability and whether their daily schedule will realistically allow them to keep all of these appointments prior to commencing treatment.
In terms of treatment timelines, simple teeth straightening can be achieved in as little as six months, particularly where just the front six teeth are involved. However, patients should bear in mind that short treatment windows typically culminate in limited changes with the risk that the teeth may migrate back to their original positions after the braces are removed. A one-to-two-year treatment timeline is more realistic in many cases, providing orthodontists with sufficient time to get the bite together in a better way in harmony with the jaws and lips. For more complex issues, the timeframe may be longer.
In terms of braces, modern orthodontics presents a variety of different options to choose from. One of the most common treatment types is fixed braces. Commonly made from stainless steel, they can also be composed of other materials such as gold or tooth-coloured material to make them more discreet. Aligners are also popular, with these clear, removable mouthguard-style braces straightening the teeth gradually over time.
Although treatment for adults is not usually funded by the NHS, children with more severe problems qualify for treatment free of charge. In the case of eligible child patients, the NHS covers the price of all braces, repairs and adjustments required throughout the duration of treatment, with the exception of removable braces lost or damaged beyond repair.
