What to Expect

Who is eligible for NHS treatment?
All patients aged 17 and under are entitled to a free orthodontic assessment on the NHS. Following the NHS reforms introduced in April 2006, patients who are 17 and under and whose orthodontic problem meets the new criteria, are eligible for treatment under the NHS . Click here for detailed information on the NHS Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need.

Is there a waiting list for an NHS Orthodontic assessment appointment?
We do not have a waiting list at Inline Orthodontics and an assessment appointment to be seen will be arranged upon receipt of a referral from your dentist. You can also self refer but we would ask that we are in contact with your general dentist as well. Please note that all NHS new patient appointments are currently scheduled in the mornings.

What do I do if I’m an adult and want to be seen for an assessment?
New adult patient private consultations are arranged at mutually convenient times on an individual basis. Please ring us on 01438 765 390 to make an appointment. For information about the various treatment options and their respective costs, please check out our price list. 

Why might my dentist refer me to an Orthodontist?
Your dentist may ask us to give you specialist advice as to whether you might benefit from orthodontic treatment. Most patients having orthodontic treatment will benefit from improvements in both the appearance and function of their teeth.

At what age do patients usually begin Orthodontic treatment?
In most cases, when all the adult teeth have come through, from around 12 years of age. In some cases a brief course of earlier treatment, from around 8 to 11 years of age, can avoid or reduce the extent of treatment needed later. However, age is no barrier to having treatment and we treat many adults, some of whom started their treatment in their 50s and 60s.

How can I make certain that the Orthodontist is full aware of my child’s individual requirements?
Inline Orthodontics aims to provide each patient with care specific to their individual needs. If your child has any special needs, please speak initially with one of our care coordinators and we will work as a to ensure we do our best to help.

What will happen on my first appointment?
The orthodontist will ask you what concerns you about your teeth and will examine your mouth and facial profile. An x-ray may be required and impressions to make a model of your teeth. We will then discuss our findings with you and, if you are under 18, with your parent/guardian. At this point, we will explain whether you could benefit from orthodontic treatment and if so, whether the treatment would be covered by the NHS and also whether you are ready to begin. We will fully explain the proposed treatment and encourage you to ask questions before deciding if you want to proceed.

What do I do if the NHS will not pay and I still want treatment?
We will explain the various private options to you and their respective costs so that you can make a decision which works best for you. For information about the various treatment options and their respective costs, please check out our price list.

What will happen next if I decide to proceed?
If you require a brace, an appointment will be made for your brace to be fitted. You will then need to return regularly for adjustments and other procedures until the treatment is completed. If you need teeth removed, this will be done (or arranged) by your general dentist.

You must always maintain good oral hygiene during your treatment. At the reception desk please ask about the oral hygiene product available to purchase to help you maintain a healthy smile

How long does treatment take?
Treatment lengths vary from 6 months for the simplest forms of treatment, to around 24 months for complex treatments.

Does Orthodontic treatment hurt?
In general, procedures carried out in the orthodontic clinic do not hurt and so there is seldom a need to use a local anaesthetic (i.e. a needle). You may find that sometimes following your appointments, your teeth may feel a bit tender as they move into position. This tenderness is temporary and responds well to over-the-counter painkillers, similar to the ones you might take for a headache.

Can I continue to play contact sports?
Please click here for a comprehensive overview of playing contact sports whilst wearing a brace.

Will Orthodontic treatment affect my ability to practice and perform my wind instrument?
Please click here for a comprehensive answer about playing wind instruments while wearing a brace.

Why might I not be ready for treatment?
You may need to wait for your adult teeth to come through before we can know for certain whether or not you could benefit from orthodontic treatment. You may need to stop a thumb sucking habit, improve your brushing or just need more time to decide whether you want to proceed with treatment. Whatever the reason, we would happily see you again at a later date to review the situation.

Will I need to continue to see my General Dentist?
Yes. It is important that you continue to see your general dentist for regular check-ups throughout the course of your orthodontic treatment. We will also keep your dentist informed about your treatment progress.