Orthodontists in London

Orthodontic treatment can take anywhere from three months to two years. The duration depends on how complex the tooth movement is, whether fixed braces or clear aligners are used, and patient compliance with wearing aligners or looking after braces. Your orthodontist will always provide a personalised timeline after your consultation and digital planning.

There are no strict age limits. Children benefit from early assessment from around age seven to identify growth or jaw issues. Teenagers often choose clear aligners or fixed braces. Increasing numbers of adults also seek treatment for cosmetic and functional improvements. Modern orthodontic systems are discreet, comfortable, and suitable for most ages.

Most patients return every 4 to 6 weeks. These visits allow the orthodontist to check progress, adjust braces or provide new aligners, and ensure teeth are tracking as planned. Appointments are short and scheduled around work, school, or travel to minimise disruption to daily life.

All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. A specialist orthodontist has completed several additional years of advanced training focused on tooth movement, bite correction, facial growth, and complex orthodontic planning. This ensures safe, predictable and stable results.

You might feel mild pressure or tenderness for a day or two after braces are adjusted or when starting a new set of aligners. This is normal and shows the teeth are moving. Any discomfort is usually short-lived and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

Yes. Orthodontic treatment can correct overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite. Braces, aligners, and specialised appliances can improve jaw position and bite function, reducing strain on teeth and joints. Severe cases may require a combination of orthodontics and jaw surgery, which our specialist team can coordinate.

When supervised by a qualified orthodontist, tooth movement is safe and controlled. It is essential that patients maintain good oral hygiene because plaque build-up around brackets or aligners can cause gum inflammation and tooth decay. Our dental hygienists support you throughout treatment to protect your teeth and gums.

With fixed braces, you will need to avoid very hard, sticky, or chewy foods to protect brackets and wires. Clear aligners are removed for eating, so there are fewer food restrictions. Most patients adapt quickly to eating and speaking with their chosen system.

Yes. Retainers are vital to maintain your new smile. Teeth have a natural tendency to shift back if not held in position. We provide fixed retainers, removable retainers or Vivera retainers (for Invisalign patients), depending on your treatment plan.

In many cases, yes. A specialist orthodontist can plan tooth movement around existing restorations. For some patients, orthodontics is recommended before veneers or crowns to reduce the need for unnecessary tooth preparation. Our orthodontic and restorative dentists work together to ensure the safest and most aesthetic result.

For many mild and moderate orthodontic concerns, Invisalign can achieve the same outcome as fixed braces. Traditional braces may still be recommended for more complex movements or severe bite issues. Your orthodontist will advise which system offers the most predictable outcome for your specific case.

Patients using clear aligners can whiten during treatment because aligners are removable. For fixed braces, whitening is usually recommended after braces are removed to ensure even colour across all teeth. We can discuss whitening options as part of your final smile plan.

With good retainer wear and proper dental care, orthodontic results are long-term. Our clinic provides structured aftercare and monitoring to protect your new smile and ensure your teeth remain straight and stable.

Contact us as soon as possible. Misplaced aligners can be replaced quickly, and missing brackets can be repaired during a short appointment. We will advise you on whether to wear a previous aligner, move to the next one, or attend urgently.

In some cases, yes. Certain bite discrepancies or narrow arches can influence speech patterns and airflow. Correcting alignment may improve pronunciation, reduce oral habits, or enhance facial balance. Your orthodontist will assess whether these benefits apply in your situation.