What will happen next?

There are likely to be three possible outcomes, each of which will be explained to you by the orthodontist:

1. You are not yet ready for treatment in which case you will need to see the orthodontist again when you are older. Your Orthodontist may give advice (to stop thumb sucking) or suggest that your dentist remove some teeth to provide space for adult teeth that have not yet come through. If this happens you should be aware that you might still need more teeth extracted at a later date when you are older.
2. You do not need treatment because the position of your teeth is perfectly acceptable or likely to be. In case of the latter, we will continue to see you periodically until you have shed all your remaining baby teeth and only then refer back to your dentist.

You are ready for treatment and (assuming your brushing and oral hygiene is adequate) need to decide whether to go ahead. Orthodontic treatment usually involves the wearing of braces (removable or fixed) and often the extraction of teeth. Your orthodontist will explain the options for treatment and which is best for you. The risks, limitations and benefits of treatment, the length of time of treatment will take, the commitment needed on your part if treatment is to be successful and when you can expect the treatment to begin. At this point you will be given the chance to ask questions. Please be aware that throughout your orthodontic treatment, we will be giving you detailed written information and instructions. We may need to take some impressions of your teeth before you leave. You should allow six to eight weeks for us to receive the approval from the health service. We will then contact you for your second appointment. Please note that if you have been told that you will need teeth extracted as part of the treatment with braces, this will always take place after your second visit with us. Your own dentist will then be responsible for carrying out the extractions.

Contact details ...

The Hitchin Orthodontic Practice
47 Bancroft
Hitchin
Hertfordshire
SG5 1LA

Tel: 01462 435400