Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need to be referred by my dentist to have an appointment?
• What will happen at the first appointment?
• Why a specialist consultant-level orthodontist?
• Why a purely private orthodontic practice?
• When is it best for children to first see us?
• What treatments do you offer?
• Do I need to see my own dentist during my orthodontic treatment?
• Are there any risks with orthodontic treatment?
• Is treatment a bit of a pain?
• When will my smile be perfect?
• How often will I need to visit?
• How much will treatment cost?

 

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Do I need to be referred by my dentist to have an appointment? 

Not at all, we will keep your dentist fully informed after your visit to us. We are delighted that many of our patients come to us through recommendations from previous patients. Complete our Self-referal form

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What will happen at the first appointment? 

We want to find out what it is you really want to see improved about your smile. We'll take a set of photographs, and probably one or two x-rays, then make lots of notes on the computer.

We will then have a good chat about what we will do to give you the smile you are looking for, how long your treatment will take, and what the financial investment will be. Occasionally, for more complex treatments, a second planning visit is needed to finalise your treatment plan.

You will see photos of other patients (who are happy to have their pictures shown), as well as descriptions of the braces we will be using. As there is lots of visual material, it's great if both mum and dad can come along with a child patient, and if you are an adult, we're very happy for you to bring a relative or partner too.

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Why a specialist consultant-level orthodontist? 

In the UK, all dentists are permitted to provide orthodontics, and can even call themselves 'orthodontists'. In contrast, 'Specialist Orthodontists' undertake three years of extra full-time training and study. Exams must be passed before qualifying (MSc and MOrth) to be registered as a 'Specialist' with the General Dental Council (www.gdc-uk.org). You will be pleased to know that in addition to Specialist Orthodontist status, both Dr. Orton-Gibbs and Dr. Slattery have had three further years of training - in treating the most difficult orthodontic cases - to become hospital Consultants. They adhere to the GDC rules governing the profession.

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Why a purely private orthodontic practice? 

We are one of a handful of purely private orthodontic practices in the UK. There are no compromises at Walpole Specialists. You will receive the treatment you deserve and the time you need - both in terms of the most appropriate treatment plan and also at each visit.

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When is it best for children to first see us? 

We like to meet patients at age eight to nine years, so that we can plan the best time for starting treatment. This is especially important if facial growth guidance is needed. An early diagnosis of certain problems can dramatically reduce the amount of treatment needed. We are, of course, happy to meet your child/teenager at whatever point you or your dentist seek our specialist opinion. We also welcome patients who are new to the area for continuing orthodontic care.

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What treatments do you offer? 

We provide a full range. We will guide you to your best option for delivering a great transformation whilst fitting into your lifestyle.

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Do I need to see my own dentist during my orthodontic treatment? 

Yes please. We like to maintain a good relationship with your dentist throughout treatment and keep them informed as to your progress. We also ask you to see your dentist for your normal check ups and every six months for hygiene appointments, (every three months if you are an adult).

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Are there any risks with orthodontic treatment? 

Orthodontics is one of the least invasive ways to improve your smile and is suitable for almost everyone. We carefully check to see if there are any reasons why you should not undertake treatment and will explain any risks to you.

Plaque left on teeth can scar them, so during treatment you will therefore need to take a little more care to keep your teeth clean. We give you lots of help and advice on how to avoid this and also provide complimentary special orthodontic toothbrushes to help you do a great job with your tooth brushing.

During treatment the length of the roots of the teeth can shorten slightly - this is such a small change for most patients that it does not affect the health of your mouth. A few patients are more prone to root shortening due to the shapes of their roots. If this is the case with you, we will explain that you might have a greater chance of root shortening and tell you what we will do during treatment to minimise this risk.

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Is treatment a bit of a pain? 

In our end of treatment questionnaires, our patients say their new smile makes treatment worthwhile. For some patients, when braces are fitted or after each appliance adjustment, there can be soreness of the teeth, but this goes after 3 or 4 days. For a few of these a mild analgesic, such as paracetamol, may be needed. We give our patients a complimentary amenity pack including special brushes to help keep teeth nice and clean. This also contains special wax to put on the brace if it catches the cheek. This can happen occasionally, especially whilst you are getting used to a new brace.

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When will my smile be perfect? 

We will give you a very good estimate of the treatment time at your first visit to us, along with the total investment you will make in your new smile. We choose the most efficient and comfortable appliances and techniques for you and schedule appointments to complete treatment as fast as possible. It's rare to take longer than two years, and depending on age and the issues that need addressing, you can be finished in less than a year.

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How often will I need to visit? 

It varies depending on what stage of treatment and what type of brace. On average your brace will need adjusting every 6 to 8 weeks.

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How much will treatment cost? 

The investment depends on what type of brace you choose to use, the length of time your treatment will take and how complicated your treatment is. One of our experienced treatment coordinators can usually give you a guide on the phone once you have given us some details about how we can help you. At your first appointment the exact investment for each suitable treatment will be outlined and we will help you choose the treatment that best suits you. Occasionally, for more complex treatments, a second planning visit is needed to finalise your treatment plan. We have a variety of payment options which can spread your financial commitment throughout the time that you are receiving the treatment.

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