Frequently asked questions

Orthodontic treatment, also known as teeth straightening, involves wearing braces or removable aligners to gradually move your teeth into a straighter position. You can have orthodontic treatment for a number of reasons. You may have a common dental issue such as crooked teeth, crowded teeth or an overbite, or you may want them straightened purely for cosmetic reasons. At Wrexham Dental Works, treatment is carried out by a specialist orthodontists who first trained as dentists before going on to complete three years of specialist training in orthodontics. There are a number of treatments available to straighten your teeth, from fixed braces to Invisalign aligners and cosmetic teeth straightening.

Braces are often associated with teenagers, but it’s never too late to straighten your smile. If you’re concerned about how braces will look, we have discreet options including Invisalign treatment & discreet fixed brace options. If you’re interested in braces, the best thing to do is book a free consultation* at Wrexham Dental Works. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss all your options with one of our orthodontists.

The cost of your treatment will depend on your individual needs. To get an accurate quote, you’ll need to have a free* consultation with one of our orthodontists so they can assess your mouth and understand what treatment is suitable for you. NHS care is also available for under 18s who meet a certain criteria who have been referred by your general dentist.

NHS orthodontic care is available at Wrexham dental works for under 18s who need braces for dental health reasons. To find out if your child is eligible for NHS orthodontic treatment, you’ll need to visit your general dentist for an initial assessment. They will then refer you to us for a free NHS consultation to confirm you meet the eligibility criteria. If your child is accepted for NHS treatment, they may need to join a waiting list before their braces are fitted. Our team will advise you how long this might be once you’re accepted. If your child isn’t eligible for NHS care, we have alternative private options available, including Orthodontic Essentials – offering fixed braces from £2,195†.

Most people are suitable for orthodontic treatment, but the type of treatment you can have will depend on your individual needs. You’ll need to attend a consultation with an orthodontist before you start treatment so they can make sure your teeth and gums are healthy enough for braces. If you have tooth decay or gum disease, your orthodontist will advise you see your general dentist in the first instance to treat the problem. Once your oral health is in order, you can start your treatment. Occasionally, there are other problems that may need correcting before you can have your teeth straightened, such as bone loss. The type of treatment you can have depends on your individual needs. For example, if you have severe orthodontic problems, you may need fixed braces rather than removable ones. Your orthodontist will explain everything when you see them for your free consultation*.

Orthodontic treatment is the only way to achieve straighter teeth. If you’re worried about how braces will look, we have a wide range of treatments beyond metal braces. These include discreet options like clear fixed braces, Iconix and Invisalign treatment. Some treatments, such as the Invisalign system, use a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth instead of the metal wires and brackets used in traditional braces. Sometimes, people consider other cosmetic treatments like veneers if they have misaligned teeth. Although they may cover your teeth, veneers aren’t a solution for a permanently straighter smile.

Teeth straightening gradually moves your teeth into a straighter position, which makes them temporarily more sensitive. As you wear your braces or aligners more, you’ll get used to them and they’ll feel more comfortable. With fixed braces, the inside of your cheeks or your tongue may become a little sore for a week or so after you have your braces fitted and every time you have them adjusted. With aligners, your teeth may ache when you first start wearing them and each time you have a new set. Over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, will help to ease any initial discomfort. You can also attach orthodontic wax to any areas of your brace that start to rub, which you can get from your orthodontist. If you need advice or support, your practice team will be there for you throughout your journey.

Orthodontic treatment is safe as long as it’s carried out by a registered professional with experience in teeth straightening. At Wrexham Dental Works, you’re in safe hands. Your treatment will be carried out by a trained, specialist orthodontist who is registered with the General Dental Council, and who will monitor your progress throughout your treatment journey.

The length of treatment completely depends on your individual needs. Your orthodontist will discuss the length of your treatment with you once you’ve had a consultation.

During orthodontic treatment, your teeth are held in position by your braces or aligners. Once they’re removed, stretched fibres in your gums try to pull the teeth back to their original position. It takes time for these fibres to remodel and stop pulling on the teeth. To avoid this movement once your teeth have been straightened, we’ll give you a retainer to wear. If you don’t wear it as instructed, your teeth will slowly revert back to their original position. Your orthodontist will talk to you about retainers when you’re nearing the end of your treatment.

Without retainers, your teeth will slowly move back into their original position. If you lose your removable retainer, get in touch with the practice as soon as you can. There will be an additional cost to purchase a new one, so it’s important to keep it safe.

Orthodontic headgear is an appliance that is worn partially outside of your mouth. It’s rare that someone needs headgear, but it’s sometimes used for children whose jaw bones are still growing. Generally, headgear is designed to be worn for around 14 hours a day. Your orthodontist will let you know if your child needs headgear and tell you everything you need to know before you start treatment.

Most children start orthodontic treatment around the age of 12 once all their permanent teeth have come through, but it could be earlier depending on their individual needs. If your general dentist has any concerns about your child’s teeth, they will refer you to an orthodontist. In some cases, treatment isn’t needed immediately and your child will be invited back for a review appointment at a later date. Your orthodontist will also be able to assess whether you’re eligible for NHS treatment or whether you need to consider private options.

You’ll be able to change the colour of your elastic bands every six to ten weeks if you have traditional fixed braces. This is often a popular option for children but is available for adults too.

If you experience any problems with a broken brace, contact us as soon as possible for further advice. In the meantime, try to continue wearing the brace. If you have aligners which have broken or bent out of shape, you should continue to wear your last set until you can see your orthodontist..

If you’re interested in teeth straightening, the best thing to do is book a free consultation*. Your orthodontist will be able to talk through all your options with you and you’ll be able to ask any questions you might have. Use the form below to book your free consultation today.