How long does it take to straighten teeth?

Here at Maidstone Dental & Implant Centre we understand that deciding to undergo teeth straightening is a big decision and we want to ensure that you have as much information as possible so you can decide whether it is the treatment for you. 

Therefore in this month’s blog we are going to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about teeth straightening.

1. Can I get teeth straightening treatment on the NHS?

Teeth straightening is currently only available to children under the age of 18 and adults with complex dental needs on the NHS. If your case is less severe or is for aesthetic reasons you will probably need to have teeth straightening treatment through a private dentist. 

2. Is there an age limit for teeth straightening?

There is no age limit for teeth straightening, it can be done at any time of life, provided your teeth and gums are healthy. 

3. Will I have to have teeth extracted?

We will do everything we can to preserve your natural teeth and straighten your smile without the need to carry out any extractions. Although we will of course let you know if we feel an extraction is the best course of treatment. 
Six Month Braces and Invisalign can usually be carried out without the need for extractions

4. How long will treatment take?

How long teeth straightening treatment takes will depend on your individual case, the degree of movement and the type of treatment you are having. Prior to starting treatment we will provide you with a detailed treatment plan that will provide an estimated treatment time scale. 

Teeth straightening can be carried out in as little as four to six months for minor issues or up to 24 months for more complex cases. 

5. How often will I need to attend the surgery?

Again this will depend on the teeth straightening system you have, but is normally every four to eight weeks. 

6. How do I look after my braces?

Once your brace is fitted the team at Maidstone Dental & Implant Centre will provided you with detailed aftercare advice. It is generally advised that you brush your teeth after every meal and use interdental cleaning aids daily. 

7. What is a retainer?

A retainer can be removable or fitted to the back of the teeth in order to keep the teeth in their final position after teeth straightening treatment has been completed and the brace has been removed. The retainer prevents the teeth from regressing back to their original position.

8. How much will it cost?

All costs will be fully explained when you attend for your consultation appointment. At Maidstone Dental & Implant Centre we want to ensure that financial considerations do not prevent you from achieving the smile of your dreams and we are therefore pleased to be able to offer a range of finance options, to help you spread your treatment into manageable monthly amounts. 

We are currently in the process of reopening for routine dental treatment so if you would like to find out more about teeth straightening email Maidstone Dental & Implant Centre today on info@maidstonndental.co.uk and we will endeavour to get back to you as quickly as possible.

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