SPECIALIST ORTHODONTIC CARE

Braces & Orthodontics

Straightening teeth with specialist attention to your bite.

Whether you have been considering braces for a while or have only just started to explore orthodontics, we will make the process easy to understand. Our specialist-led team looks at how your teeth and jaws work together, as well as the smile you would like to see.

A clear aligner and orthodontic planning conversation
Specialist orthodontic assessment
Fixed metal and ceramic options
Bite correction and retention considered
Treatment stages and reviews explained clearly

THE ESSENTIALS

How could braces help your smile?

Braces use small brackets and wires to gently guide teeth into new positions over time. They can be particularly useful where teeth need careful, controlled movement. We assess your alignment, bite, oral health and lifestyle, then explain the options, likely stages and the role of retainers in maintaining the finished result.

Read the complete patient guide ↗

WHAT TO KNOW

Fixed metal and ceramic appliances where clinically appropriate

Specialist assessment of tooth movement and jaw relationships

Options for cases where removable aligners are less suitable

Retention and oral hygiene considered from the beginning

RESULTS & EXPECTATIONS

Beautiful alignment, planned around a healthy bite.

A lovely orthodontic result is about more than straight-looking front teeth. The way your teeth meet, function and stay stable matters just as much. Our orthodontic team makes those details part of the plan from the beginning.

Explore our patient results ↗
Close-up smile photograph illustrating the appearance of naturally aligned teeth
Individual results vary. Images are illustrative of treatment options.

THE PROCESS

From first assessment to retention

We begin by listening to your goals and looking carefully at your teeth. Then we explain the stages, the appointments involved and how we will support you throughout.

  1. 01

    Diagnosis and options

    A clinical assessment determines the movements needed and whether fixed braces or aligners are appropriate. We explain likely benefits and limits.

  2. 02

    Planning and fitting

    Records support the treatment plan. Brackets and wires are fitted and you receive advice about brushing, diet, discomfort and what to do if an appliance breaks.

  3. 03

    Active treatment and reviews

    Teeth move gradually and require regular reviews and adjustments. Timelines vary depending on bite, biological response and treatment complexity.

  4. 04

    Braces off, retainers on

    Once the planned movements are complete, retainers are provided or discussed. Retention is part of treatment because teeth have a tendency to move again.

HERE FOR YOU

Every step explained, with time for questions.

From your first conversation to the finishing touches, we will explain what comes next, make space for your questions and help you feel comfortable with your care.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MORE

Your guide to braces and long-term retention

Braces are a familiar treatment, but it is reassuring to know what day-to-day life with them is actually like. We explain adjustments, cleaning, eating, appointments and retention in a way that helps you feel ready.

YOUR OPTIONS

Your orthodontic appliance choices

We begin with what you would love to achieve, then consider your tooth health, bite and the choices that suit you.

Metal fixed braces

A familiar and versatile option using attached brackets and wires. They are worn continuously and adjusted or reviewed at scheduled visits.

Ceramic fixed braces

Tooth-coloured or translucent brackets can be less visible, but may require different care and may not suit every treatment plan.

Clear aligners

Invisalign offers a removable alternative for suitable movements. Aligners rely heavily on daily wear; fixed braces can be preferable where the desired control or patient circumstances differ.

We will talk through the possibilities and agree what feels right for your individual circumstances.

SUITABILITY

What happens at an orthodontic assessment?

We assess alignment, crowding, jaw and bite relationships, spacing, tooth health and periodontal support. Records may include photographs, scans and radiographs if clinically appropriate.

Both teenagers and adults can be assessed for orthodontic treatment. The right age or timing depends on growth, dental development, oral health and the complexity of the problem.

Healthy teeth and gums matter before braces are fitted. Where cleaning is difficult or gum disease is active, we discuss ways to reduce risk and whether treatment should be delayed.

Prefer to talk it through? A £30 consultation gives you time to explore what could be possible for your own smile.

DETAILS THAT MATTER

Practical details about living with braces

We will explain how each option works in practice, including the details that matter to your day-to-day comfort and long-term result.

When fixed braces may be the better choice

Brackets and wires allow controlled movement across a broad range of orthodontic problems. They may be preferable to removable aligners where particular tooth movements, bite correction or patient circumstances make fixed treatment more suitable. There is no universally best appliance: diagnosis, expected movements and practical considerations all matter.

Worth knowing: The best appliance is determined by the case rather than how discreet it looks.

Metal versus ceramic brackets

Ceramic brackets may appear less prominent against the tooth surface, while metal braces are familiar and robust. The availability and suitability of each depend on treatment goals, mechanics and oral hygiene. Your orthodontist should discuss aesthetic preferences alongside any trade-offs in care or maintenance.

Worth knowing: Appliance appearance is one factor in a broader clinical decision.

Keeping teeth healthy while wearing braces

Brackets and wires make plaque control more demanding. Daily brushing around the appliance, interdental cleaning and suitable dietary choices help reduce the risk of gum inflammation, enamel demineralisation and decay. Broken brackets or wires should be reported for appropriate advice. Continue routine dental checks throughout treatment.

Worth knowing: Healthy enamel and gums are as important as well-aligned teeth.

Why retainers matter after braces

Teeth can move after appliances are removed. Retention reduces unwanted movement but requires commitment, reviews and sometimes replacement retainers. The type of retainer, its limitations and expected wear schedule should be explained before active treatment starts.

Worth knowing: The finish of orthodontic treatment is the beginning of long-term retention, not the end of responsibility.

BALANCED CLINICAL ADVICE

What should you weigh up?

We will discuss tenderness after adjustments, careful cleaning around brackets, the small risk of white marks or root changes and the importance of retainers. With the right support and habits, patients can feel well prepared for their orthodontic journey.

Brackets and wires make plaque control more demanding. Without careful cleaning, there can be increased risk of tooth decay, gum inflammation and white marks around where brackets were attached.

Discomfort after fitting or adjustment is common. Breakages can occur. Orthodontic tooth movement can also involve risks such as root shortening, gum changes and relapse; the clinician will explain the relevant risks.

Fixed braces are not necessarily quicker or better than aligners for every patient. We will discuss appearance, treatment control, daily responsibilities and cost in context.

At your consultation we will explain alternative choices, any relevant risks and the likely costs, leaving you plenty of time to consider your plan.

LONG-TERM RESPONSIBILITIES

Cleaning braces and protecting the result

Brush carefully around brackets, wires and gum lines, with suitable interdental brushes and fluoride toothpaste. Keep routine dental checks during treatment.

Very hard, crunchy or sticky foods can damage fixed appliances. Follow your orthodontic team’s advice and report a loose bracket or wire promptly.

After braces, keep using retainers as prescribed. Long-term retention and periodic replacement or repair may be needed.

Useful questions for your consultation

  • Are fixed braces preferable to aligners in my case?
  • Would metal or ceramic brackets change the treatment plan?
  • How often will adjustments and hygiene reviews be needed?
  • Which retainers, reviews and replacements are included?

PRACTICAL ANSWERS

Questions patients often ask

We are always happy to talk through the details. Your clinician can explain what applies to your teeth and the treatment you are considering.

What happens at an orthodontic consultation?

We begin with your concerns and goals, assess how your teeth and jaws fit together and talk you through the appliance choices. We will explain treatment stages, appointments and long-term retention before you decide.

Are braces just for children?

No. Adults can also have orthodontic treatment, although suitability, timing and the chosen appliance depend on clinical factors.

What is the difference between metal and ceramic braces?

Both are fixed appliances. Ceramic brackets are less conspicuous but may differ in robustness and care requirements. Your orthodontist will discuss suitability.

How long will I wear braces?

Treatment duration varies with the severity of crowding, bite issues and movements required. Your assessment will establish an individual estimate.

Will braces make cleaning harder?

Yes. Brackets and wires create additional surfaces to clean, so careful brushing and interdental cleaning are particularly important.

Will I need retainers?

Almost certainly. Teeth tend to move after orthodontics, and long-term retention is recommended to reduce relapse.

FURTHER READING

Trusted guidance and further reading

For patients who enjoy reading more, these independent resources explain the clinical background in greater detail.

Ready to understand your orthodontic options?

You do not need to have decided on treatment. A consultation is £30: time to share what matters to you, ask questions and explore the options that may suit you.

For planned treatment. Additional scans or investigations may cost separately; emergency assessment fees differ. Please confirm when booking.