WHAT IS ORTHODONTICS ?
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| Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specialises in the
diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental problems such as crowding,
spacing, protruding teeth or a difficult bite. Everyone wants a pleasant
smile and would like to be confident with their appearance both socially
and professionally. |
WHY IS ORTHODONTICS IMPORTANT ?
|
Your teeth, face and smile will be permanently improved by wearing
braces and it is therefore important that the treatment and planning are
carried out In the best way possible.
Stoke Orthodontic Services is
ably assisted by a well trained and caring team so that we can deliver
treatment for your family of the highest quality. |
WHAT ARE BRACES ?
|
Braces are worn in the mouth and are specially designed and made
depending on the problems that need to be corrected. They are dental
appliances that use gentle pressure to gradually guide the teeth into
improved positions.
Fixed braces, or 'railway tracks', are small
attachments that are tooth coloured or stainless steel and are glued to
the teeth. These attachments are linked together by
archwires.
Removable braces are often used to start treatment
particularly if there is a deep or heavy bite, or if there is an awkward
crossbite.
Functional braces are also removable and are designed to
reduce the prominence of the teeth so the lips and teeth can meet together
in a better way. |
WHAT ARE RETAINERS ?
|
| These are removable or hidden braces that are fitted at the end of
treatment to ensure that the teeth settle into the corrected positions.
They are usually worn of an evening and night for at least a year after
the active brace treatment is finished. |
HOW CAN I OBTAIN A CONSULTATION OR TREATMENT ?
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| Usually your general dentist will refer you, but you can contact the
practice directly if you prefer. An initial consultation will be organised
and all your questions can be answered. We will then produce a report for
your own dentist.
|
NHS OR PRIVATE TREATMENT ?
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| Generally the choice is yours and the benefits of each can be
explained at your consultation. However, if you are 18 or over, we can
only offer treatment privately.A new patient consultation costs £150, for
all study models, radiographs and full diagnosis. Treatment costs depend
on what treatment is required and will be discussed at the consultation.
|
WHEN SHOULD A CHILD BE SEEN FOR ORTHODONTICS ?
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| An orthodontic screening at age 8-10 years is sensible in order to
assess if your child would benefit from early orthodontic care. This can
frequently minimise the amount of future treatment that will be required.
Most active brace treatment is carried out from 12-15 years of age. |
WHAT ABOUT ADULT TREATMENT ?
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| Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age providing you have
healthy teeth, gums and supporting bone. Treatment may take a little
longer than the usual 18-24 months as an adult's facial bones are no
longer growing. Fortunately, aesthetic tooth coloured braces are used
which are barely noticeable when placed on your teeth. However, we can
only offer treatment on a private basis. A new patient consultation costs
£150, for all study models, radiographs and full diagnosis. Treatment
costs depend on what treatment is required and will be discussed at the
consultation. |
WHAT SHOULD I DO NOW ?
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| If you have concerns regarding your teeth or your children's teeth
then speak with your own dentist, or contact us using the methods on the
contacts
page. Our staff will explain matters to you and can make an
appointment for you. |
AIMS OF STOKE ORTHODONTIC SERVICES
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| Our aim is to give you a beautiful new smile that you can be proud of
for the rest of your life. You can be confident you will receive quality
orthodontic care provided in pleasant surroundings and in an enjoyable
way. |
