Orthodontic treatment isn’t only about straighter teeth. It improves bite, jaw comfort, and long-term dental health. At York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, Surrey, patients are assessed for alignment, bite, facial balance, and oral hygiene to recommend the right option at the right time.
Think function first, looks second—and choose a plan that fits daily life.
Signs it’s time to consider treatment
- Crowding or overlapping teeth that are hard to clean
- Gaps between teeth affecting smile or speech
- Bite problems: overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite
- Teeth wearing down unevenly, chipping, or catching
- Jaw clicking, strain, or headaches linked to bite issues
- Relapse after past braces (teeth have shifted back)
Early assessment is useful around ages 7–9 to plan growth-friendly treatment, but adults benefit at any age.
Braces vs. clear aligners: quick comparison
Braces
- Fixed to teeth; work 24/7
- Excellent for complex movements and rotations
- Visible, but modern options are smaller and more comfortable
Clear aligners
- Removable, near‑invisible trays
- Best for mild to moderate crowding/spacing and many bite refinements
- Rely on wear-time discipline (20–22 hours/day)
Both options can achieve precise, stable results when used correctly with a tailored plan.
What happens during an orthodontic assessment
- Records: photos, digital scans/impressions, and bite analysis
- Diagnosis: crowding, spacing, jaw relationships, and oral health review
- Treatment options: braces vs. aligners, expected timelines, and maintenance
- Plan: clear steps, costs, number of visits, and retention strategy after treatment
Typical appointment time: 30–45 minutes
Treatment duration (typical ranges)
- Mild crowding/spacing: 4–9 months (often aligners)
- Moderate cases: 9–18 months
- Complex/combined bite cases: 18–24+ months (often braces-based)
Your routine, discipline with aligners, and biological response can affect timing.
Cost factors
- Case complexity (crowding, bite correction, extractions)
- Appliance choice (metal, ceramic, lingual braces, or clear aligners)
- Number of aligner stages or archwires
- Retainers and follow-up after treatment
Tip: Choose the option you’ll consistently wear and maintain. Compliance beats premium features.
Types of braces and aligners
- Metal braces: robust, efficient; smaller brackets than older styles
- Ceramic/tooth-coloured braces: more discreet front-of-mouth option
- Lingual (inside) braces: hidden, ideal for high-aesthetic needs
- Clear aligners: staged trays, planned movements, attachments for precision
Ideal patients
- Teens with crowding and developing bites
- Adults wanting discreet correction for crowding, spacing, or mild bite issues
- Patients with functional concerns: wear, chipping, gum recession due to bite
- Orthodontic relapse patients seeking refinement and retention
Real-world examples
- Busy professional: clear aligners worn 22h/day with weekly tray changes; virtual check-ins; treatment in 6–9 months
- Teen with crowding and a deep overbite: ceramic braces for control; 14–18 months; bonded and removable retainers after
- Adult relapse: short aligner refinement for 4–6 months; night-time retainers to maintain result
Daily life and maintenance
Braces: avoid very sticky/hard foods; use interdental brushes; hygiene visits every 3–4 months
Aligners: wear 20–22 hours/day; remove for meals; rinse trays; brush before re‑inserting; store in case
Compliance tip: Aligners only work when they’re in. Set reminders after meals and coffee breaks.
Patient feedback (typical)
- “My bite feels more comfortable, and cleaning is easier.”
- “Aligners were discreet for work, and the app kept me on track.”
- “Ceramic braces gave me control and a predictable timeline.”
Possible side effects or problems
- Mild tenderness after adjustments or tray changes (usually 24–72 hours)
- Aligners not tracking if wear-time slips (may need refinement)
- Bracket or wire irritation (wax and quick adjustment solve this)
- White spot risk around braces if hygiene is poor—regular cleans prevent this
Benefits that last
- Easier brushing and flossing; fewer cavities and gum issues
- Reduced wear, chipping, and TMJ strain from bite correction
- Improved confidence and facial balance
- Stable result with proper retention
Retention: the key to keeping results
- Removable retainers: night wear as advised (often long-term)
- Bonded retainers: thin wire behind front teeth for added security
- Retainer checks and occasional replacements keep results stable
Procedure steps: start to finish
- Assessment and records
- Fitting braces or receiving first aligner set
- Review visits every 6–8 weeks (or remote monitoring for aligners where suitable)
- Finishing and detail adjustments
- Retainer fitting and long-term maintenance plan
Who should wait or prepare first
- Active gum disease or untreated decay—address these before starting
- Poor wear-time or hygiene—build habits first with a short coaching phase
- Severe jaw discrepancies—may need combined orthodontic and surgical planning
Professional support at York House Dental Practice
- Honest guidance on which option suits your goals, lifestyle, and budget
- Hygiene support throughout treatment to keep gums healthy
- Clear retention plan so your new smile stays aligned
