Here at Park Lane we treat many patients of all ages for different orthodontic issues and receive all manner of questions. There are common questions that we receive consistently – some of these are below….

Q. How long does treatment take?

A. This depends on the type of appliance needed to correct the issue and the severity of the issue. Generally speaking, it takes 1-2 years to align and straighten teeth effectively for good, lasting results. There are shorter treatments (or limited outcome treatments) designed to get your teeth looking as you would like them to for a special occasion (popular for weddings), but this is not a long-term solution and will not correct any fundamental orthodontic issues.

Q. Are braces just for children and teens?

A. No! Our eldest patient sought to have braces was 76! In the past, orthodontics was widely considered to be just for children and teens and as more discreet treatments such as Invisalign and lingual braces were not available, adults were more anxious about their appearance changing in the workplace and in front of friends. Since 2017, 1 in 5 patients seeking orthodontic treatment is an adult – how times have changed!

Q. How do my teeth stay straight after treatment?

A. Retainer, retainer, retainer! This is an essential part of treatment that is sometimes neglected by patients. Once your braces are off you will need to wear a retainer to prevent your teeth from immediately moving back into their original position – a natural reaction for your teeth. Initial retainer fees are included in the overall fee. Using both removable and fixed retainers helps your teeth stay in position.

Q. Do braces affect my speech?

A. It is possible that certain types of brace will affect speech. Children may experience speech problems with removable braces after a few days of having it fitted. Lingual braces can also affect speech for a period of time before you get used to them – usually around 2 weeks. Clear aligners and braces fitted to your front teeth do not normally alter your speech for very long and 2D braces are very flat and take little time to adapt to.

Q. How will orthodontics/braces affect my appearance?

A. In previous years, the only available option was a metal brace that could not go unnoticed. Today, ‘transparent’ brace options such as Invisalign clear aligners and ‘barely there’ lingual braces that fit on the tongue side of the teeth allow you to undergo treatment without radically changing your appearance.

If you would like any information about the treatments offered by us here at Park Lane, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Book a Complimentary Consultation

Our emphasis is not only on the best orthodontic result, but a special focus is placed upon how orthodontic treatment will affect your long-term facial aesthetics.  Why don’t you come and have a complimentary smile scan with our experienced orthodontic therapist and come and see the practice and meet the orthodontic team?