Private Orthodontic Treatment

Why Orthodontic Treatment?

An introduction to orthodontics for prospective private patients

The goal of orthodontic treatment is to achieve harmony and balance between the teeth and face, in other words, a beautiful smile. But there are added benefits too. Crowded or protruding teeth may be more susceptible to decay as well as to gum disease and if your teeth don’t meet properly you can suffer jaw problems.

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Seeing a specialist

The Grosvenor Orthodontic Clinic works with a number of hospitals in South London and North Kent as well as dental practices which regularly refer patients for a consultation and treatment. Patients wishing to contact us directly for a consultation and to discuss treatment options are also welcome.

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Your first consultation

At your first consultation, our leading specialist orthodontist, Dr Keith Pearson or one of his four senior associates will discuss with you what you would like to achieve. X-rays may be taken, not just of your teeth but of your mouth and jaws. More recently we have added 3 dimensional x-ray imaging of the teeth and jaws and at present are the only practice in the Suoth East that offer this service.Impressions and photographs may also be necessary. We want to have a complete understanding of how your jaw functions. We don’t begin treatment until the second appointment, giving you plenty of time to get to know us and have all your questions answered. We would request that those patients under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the first appointment.

As a private orthodontic practice committed to excellence, you can expect:

• Clear explanations and choices
• Involvement in the treatment plan
• State-of-the-art techniques and materials
• An estimate of costs before treatment begins
• A friendly caring service with plenty of time for discussion

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When should treatment start?

For children, a first appointment is recommended between the ages of nine and ten. Each problem determines its own best time for intervention. However, an early examination allows your specialist to decide when treatment should begin for maximum improvement with the least inconvenience and expense. Early intervention can prevent later problems developing. Age is no barrier to treatment and the practice treats many adult patients.

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Will it be uncomfortable

There may be a few days at the start of treatment when your mouth feels uncomfortable but this soon settles down.

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What does treatment involve?

Orthodontics always involves wearing a brace (appliance). All braces have one aim, to use gentle pressure to move your teeth into a new position. The treatment you need will dictate the kind of brace which is recommended. The brace might be:

Removable

A removable brace is a plastic plate with delicate wires and springs attached. As the name suggests, this appliance can be removed for cleaning.

Fixed

Brackets are stuck to the teeth and connected by flexible wires which are tightened at regular intervals. If a fixed brace is recommended, there may be choices between ceramic (tooth-coloured) or metal brackets.

Functional

Worn on the upper and lower teeth at the same time. By connecting the two braces, the power of the jaw muscles are applied to move the teeth in tandem.

Invisalign

The newest device which may be recommended for patients who want a limited amount of realignment. In consists of a series of aligners, which look like transparent mouthguards. Sophisticated software provides the designs for the aligners, based on how you want your teeth to look, and they are worn over the course of a year.

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Treatment Begins

Once we know you are ready to proceed, we will send you a letter with the recommended treatment plan and an outline of costs.

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How long does treatment last?

A dramatic change can be achieved in months. However, treatment can take between one and two years, depending on the original problem. Appointments are usually every four to six weeks. Once you are happy with the way your teeth look your brace is replaced by a retainer. This may be either fixed or removable or a combination. Retainers are designed to stabilise your teeth in their new position. The removable retainer should be worn for a minimum of a year.

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During treatment

We believe that successful treatment is a result of effective teamwork between patient, dentist and orthodontist. Patients who adhere to the advice they are given will get the best results. During treatment, you will need to take extra care of your teeth. Please visit out caring for your teeth page for more information.

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Payment for private patients

Where possible, we are happy to help you spread the cost of treatment. If you wish, you can pay by standing order or in instalments. We accept Mastercard, Visa, American Express, cheque or cash.

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